Host of the FIFA World Cup 2030, San Sebastian has been chosen as one of the host cities for this historic event, which will be jointly organized by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. This event represents a milestone for the city, as it will be the first time it hosts official World Cup matches. The Reale Arena, also known as Anoeta, will become a focal point of international football in the region, attracting thousands of visitors from around the world and solidifying its sporting reputation.
Details of the FIFA World Cup 2030
Dates and Host Countries
The 2030 FIFA World Cup will take place from June 8 to July 21, with matches spread across several cities in the three host nations. This tournament stands out for its transcontinental nature, connecting Europe and Africa through sport. In addition to the matches, cultural events will be organized to celebrate the diversity and history of the participating regions.
Host Cities in Spain
In Spain, alongside San Sebastian, selected host cities include Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Zaragoza, Malaga, Bilbao, A Coruna, and Las Palmas. These cities were chosen for their modern infrastructures and capacity to host large crowds. Each city will not only offer state-of-the-art stadiums but also a rich cultural and touristic experience.
The selection process evaluated factors such as accessibility, the quality of sports facilities, and hotel capacity. Although San Sebastian faced challenges in connectivity, its commitment and exemplary organization enabled it to secure a place among the primary host cities.
Reale Arena, Host of the FIFA World Cup 2030: Preparations and Expectations
Stadium Expansion
The Reale Arena, home to Real Sociedad, will undergo an expansion to increase its capacity to 42,247 seats, exceeding the FIFA-required minimum of 40,000 seats for hosting World Cup matches. The expansion will focus mainly on the stadium’s upper ring, particularly the east and west stands. Additionally, the renovation will include 580 new seats in the main stand and 170 additional seats for the press.
The project has a budget of 10.6 million euros, with major construction scheduled to begin in May 2026, after the end of the 2025-2026 football season. However, some modifications near the pitch may start earlier, depending on the necessary permits. The renovation will be carried out during a summer without scheduled concerts, as such events are incompatible with the planned work.
The Reale Arena expansion also aims to address the high demand for season tickets among Real Sociedad supporters. Currently, the waiting list exceeds 5,800 people, and this renovation will significantly reduce it, strengthening the club’s fan base. This project is part of a broader investment in infrastructure, including improvements to Anoeta and Zubieta facilities, with a total cost exceeding 130 million euros since 2017.
Matches and Tournament Phases
The stadium is expected to host matches up to the quarter-finals, establishing San Sebastian as a central hub of the tournament.
Impact on San Sebastian and the Region
Economic Benefits
San Sebastian’s designation as a host city represents a significant economic opportunity for the region. The World Cup will attract thousands of visitors from around the globe, generating substantial revenue for the tourism, hospitality, and food service sectors. Beyond the immediate benefits during the event, the international spotlight on San Sebastian is expected to boost long-term tourism, attracting new visitors even after the tournament ends. This economic surge will also benefit local businesses, offering growth opportunities for small enterprises and fostering both temporary and permanent employment.
Sports and Social Development
Local authorities emphasize that this success is the result of a joint effort between Real Sociedad, the San Sebastian City Council, and other institutions. This event not only enhances San Sebastian’s image as a sports city but also contributes to the development of local sports. A portion of the revenue generated will be invested in programs promoting grassroots sports, benefiting children and young people in the region. Additionally, the World Cup will inspire future generations, encouraging them to participate in sports activities and adopt values such as teamwork and healthy competition.
In addition to economic and sports benefits, the event will strengthen the city’s cultural fabric through parallel activities, including exhibitions, festivals, and football-related events. These complementary events will enrich visitors’ experiences and engage the local community, creating an atmosphere of celebration and unity. This integrated approach will ensure that the positive effects of the World Cup extend beyond sports, leaving a lasting legacy for San Sebastian and its region.
Other Key Host Cities
Morocco and the Grand Hassan II Stadium
Morocco has announced the construction of the Grand Hassan II Stadium in Casablanca, with a capacity of 115,000 spectators. This stadium will compete with iconic infrastructures such as Santiago Bernabeu and Camp Nou to host the World Cup final.
International Cooperation
The 2030 FIFA World Cup is a unique example of international cooperation, integrating three countries in its organization. This multicultural approach highlights the unity and diversity of the sport.
Conclusion
San Sebastian’s selection as a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2030 is a recognition of the efforts and dedication of the city and its community. The impact of this event will go beyond sports, leaving a significant legacy in the region’s economy, infrastructure, and social fabric. Without a doubt, San Sebastian is ready to shine on the international stage.
