Think Tank: Morocco faces major post-2030 challenge in managing stadium legacy

Morocco must develop a clear and integrated national strategy to ensure the long-term viability of its World Cup stadium investments, according to a new report by the Center for Economic and Social Foresight.

The policy paper, titled “The Biggest Post-World Cup Challenge: Stadium Performance,” highlights the risks of underusing or mismanaging the country’s massive infrastructure projects once the 2030 FIFA World Cup concludes.

The report notes that Morocco is investing nearly 52 billion dirhams — about $5.2 billion — in sports infrastructure, including the construction of the new Hassan II Stadium in Benslimane, a 115,000-seat venue expected to cost 5 billion dirhams.

An additional 9.5 billion dirhams has been earmarked for the renovation of existing stadiums in Rabat, Tangier, Marrakesh, Fez and Agadir to bring them in line with CAF and FIFA standards.

While these investments are expected to bolster Morocco’s international sports profile, the report warns that, without a sustainable post-tournament plan, these facilities could quickly become financial burdens.

A central concern raised in the report is the issue of financial sustainability. Maintaining stadiums requires significant recurring costs, and without consistent use, they risk draining public resources.

However, the paper points to global examples where stadiums, if well marketed, have generated more than $20 million annually by hosting non-sporting events such as concerts, conferences and exhibitions. The authors emphasize that Morocco must adopt a similar approach, turning stadiums into year-round revenue-generating spaces.

Another challenge involves the concentration of infrastructure in major urban centers. The report argues that stadiums must be incorporated into broader regional development plans to support emerging cities, generate employment and reduce regional disparities. It recommends using these venues as tools to stimulate economic growth beyond traditional hubs like Casablanca and Rabat.

The think tank also calls for multipurpose use of the stadiums to maximize their social and economic value. Rather than serving only as sports venues, they should operate as dynamic community spaces that host cultural events, public gatherings, educational programs and commercial activities.

Internationally, some stadiums function as shopping centers, museums and tourist attractions, helping to ensure continuous foot traffic and financial returns.

Urban integration is also seen as key to the long-term success of these facilities. Stadiums have the potential to revitalize surrounding neighborhoods by improving transportation access, upgrading public spaces and increasing nearby property values. Such improvements can contribute to smarter, more sustainable urban development and enhance the quality of life for local residents.

Governance remains a critical factor in the stadiums’ future. The report urges the creation of regional public-private companies to manage major stadiums through performance-based contracts.

This model would promote transparency, reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies and attract private investment. Effective oversight, it adds, will be essential to avoid the seasonal underuse and mismanagement that have plagued similar projects elsewhere.

Despite these challenges, the report says Morocco possesses several strategic advantages. These include a large and passionate football fan base, well-established transport infrastructure, a favorable geographic location, a vibrant tourism sector and growing private sector involvement in sports management.

These factors, if coordinated through a comprehensive national policy, could help transform World Cup infrastructure into long-term assets.

The authors call for collaboration among government bodies, local authorities and civil society to ensure that stadiums serve not only sporting needs but also broader economic, social and territorial goals. They recommend integrating stadiums into urban plans with access to parking, green spaces and commercial services.

They also stress the importance of securing regular usage by national teams, encouraging club investment in sports marketing and improving the fan experience.

Additionally, the report proposes the creation of specialized training programs for stadium management, in partnership with universities and international organizations. This would help professionalize the sector and ensure that key personnel are equipped to operate these complex facilities efficiently and adaptively.

Finally, the report highlights the need for a national and international marketing strategy to build strong stadium brands. By leveraging digital platforms, securing naming rights and hosting international events, Morocco could generate steady revenue while reinforcing its image as a cultural and sporting destination.

The 2030 World Cup is expected to showcase Morocco’s ability to host a global sporting event, but the real test, the report warns, will come afterward. How the country manages its stadium infrastructure in the years beyond the tournament will ultimately determine whether these investments deliver lasting returns or become underused monuments to a fleeting moment in the global spotlight.