Euskadi proposes joint Bilbao-San Sebastián 2030 World Cup venue with San Mamés and Anoeta | OneFootball

According to as.com, Euskadi has asked FIFA to accept a single joint host across Bilbao and San Sebastián for the 2030 World Cup, using San Mamés and Anoeta. The plan foresees four group matches, two at each stadium, under one unified budget.

The municipalities, the provincial councils of Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa, the Basque Government, Athletic and Real Sociedad announced the move on Monday, saying it follows detailed studies aligned with organisers’ demands and a country-first approach.

Bilbao’s mayor, Juan Mari Aburto, said the city is not withdrawing and that, if FIFA rejects the format, that would be FIFA’s choice. He stressed protecting Bilbao’s capacity to attract major events, citing a potential Tour de France Femmes Grand Départ.

Aburto declined to disclose figures due to confidentiality. He noted the Tour start cost 12 million and this bid would be far higher. The prior outlay was shared by seven institutions, whereas this would fall to five, with no contribution from Álava.

He argued Bilbao cannot accept months-long limits on key infrastructure and said UEFA had encouraged the city to reapply to host a Women’s Champions League final. FIFA set a 31 May deadline before midnight, and Bilbao and Donostia filed on time.

A final response is awaited, with a decision expected around December this year.

Source: as.com