Malaga’s hopes for the 2030 world cup hang by a single thread

Rumours abound that Malaga might abandon their plans to hold matches for the FIFA World Cup in 2030, casting doubt on the city’s involvement in this highly anticipated tournament. 

Rumors say that the decision is based on the tight deadlines, and the uncertainty surrounding the needs and wants of Malaga Football Club and its fans.

The three key stakeholders in the project to bring the World Cup to Malaga are the council, Malaga Provincial Council, and the Junta de Andalucía, who are all reportedly open to the idea of stepping back from hosting duties. The inability to construct a new stadium at Puerto de la Torre in the time frame required is a major issue. It was decided to renovate La Rosaleda stadium in Malaga to meet FIFA’s minimum requirement of 45,000 seats and more modern facilities.

However, the renovation is not without its challenges. The project would force Malaga CF to move out temporarily to the Athletics Stadium near Martín Carpena for at least two seasons, starting in the summer of 2026, when construction is due to begin. Fans and the club have expressed “unease” over the temporary move. Malaga CF argues, however, that the Athletics Stadium has a capacity that is far too small and warns the club that the move could result in “serious social, economic and sporting harm”.

La Rosaleda must be modernised to create a new urban center similar to Marbella’s stadium plans. But the proposed transformation has caused a conflict within the city. Malaga’s hopes of hosting the World Cup in 2030 are on the line as time is running out.