Marrakech Stadium to Close for Renovation Ahead of 2030 World Cup

By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo

• Major Upgrade Begins in Morocco’s Red City

The Grand Stade de Marrakech, one of Morocco’s most iconic football venues, is set to temporarily close as part of an extensive renovation programme tied to preparation efforts for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal.

### **Full-Scale Renovation Underway**

According to reports, the Marrakech stadium will shut its doors “in the coming days” as construction crews begin full-scale renovation work to align the facility with FIFA’s technical and safety requirements ahead of the tournament.

Earlier upgrades for the venue already took place in advance of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where the stadium hosted several matches. That earlier phase was part of a broader modernisation mission, including improved seating, refurbished media zones, enhanced locker rooms, and a completely redone pitch, which concluded in mid-2025.

World Cup 2030 Preparations in Morocco

The closure and new renovation phase reflect Morocco’s ongoing commitment to readying its sports infrastructure for **World Cup matches in 2030**. Morocco’s bid ensures that CAF- and FIFA-standard facilities are deployed across key host cities including Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Fez, Agadir, and Marrakech.

Work already completed, particularly for AFCON 2025, will serve as a foundation for upgrades aligned with FIFA’s global event requirements. Planned improvements at the Marrakech stadium as well as other venues include expanded seating capacities, updated technology systems, spectator comfort enhancements, and infrastructure to support global broadcasting standards.

The Role of Marrakech in the Tournament

Marrakech’s stadium has historic significance, having hosted major fixtures including the FIFA Club World Cup in previous years. Its strategic position in Morocco’s football landscape makes it a likely candidate to host group-stage matches and potentially later rounds during the 2030 tournament.

Beyond the Stadium: National Preparations

Morocco’s preparations for World Cup 2030 extend far beyond football arenas. The kingdom is investing heavily in transport, infrastructure, and urban development projects to support the influx of international visitors and teams. These include highway upgrades, expanded airport capacities, and social programmes that link sporting events to sustainable community development.

As the Marrakech Grand Stade transitions into its next phase of renovation, organizers and fans alike are watching closely, underscoring how Morocco’s football infrastructure is evolving rapidly in the build-up to one of the sport’s most historic tournaments.