FIFA inspects Benfica and Sporting stadiums as 2030 World Cup planning begins | OneFootball

A FIFA delegation carried out inspection visits to Estádio José Alvalade and Estádio da Luz in Lisbon on Thursday, 12 March, part of the first round of venue checks for the 2030 World Cup co-hosted by Portugal, Spain and Morocco.

According to Glorioso 1904, the programme began at Estádio José Alvalade, home of Sporting, where vice-president André Bernardo presented planned upgrades. The party was welcomed by federation secretary-general Rui Caeiro, who accompanied the representatives.

In the afternoon the team moved to Estádio da Luz, Benfica’s ground, where vice-president Nuno Catarino detailed completed works and further developments targeted before the tournament.

Throughout, the FIFA group was supported by the Portuguese Football Federation’s team led by António Laranjo, the body’s executive director and coordinator of the national bid.

Beyond the stadium tours, officials held institutional meetings with Lisbon City Council and members of the Portuguese Government. The delegation was also received by Secretary of State for Sport Pedro Dias as preparations continue.

Hosting for 2030 was ratified at the FIFA Congress in December 2024. In Portugal, matches will be played at Estádio da Luz, Estádio José Alvalade and Estádio do Dragão, home of Porto, the first World Cup on Portuguese soil.

Source: Glorioso 1904