United States Extends Temporary Protected Status for Cameroonians, Citing Armed Conflict and Human Rights Abuses

In a move to address the ongoing armed conflict and human rights abuses in Cameroon, the United States announced on Friday the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Cameroonian nationals residing in the country. The designation, which was set to expire, has been extended through June 7, 2025, providing temporary deportation relief and work permits for eligible individuals, including Cameroonian students.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the decision to extend TPS for Cameroonians was driven by the armed conflict and the dire conditions prevailing in the Central African country. The TPS program offers protection to immigrants who are unable to return to their home countries due to extraordinary circumstances, ensuring their safety and granting them the ability to legally work in the United States.

Cameroonians were initially granted TPS status last year, recognizing the dangerous situation in their home country. The conflict in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions, where separatist groups have been fighting against the French-speaking government since 2017, has resulted in the loss of thousands of lives. The separatists are seeking to establish an independent state known as Ambazonia. Additionally, the region is also grappling with an insurgency by the Islamist group Boko Haram.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized the United States’ commitment to provide safety and protection to Cameroonian nationals who are unable to return home due to the ongoing armed conflict and the prevailing extraordinary and temporary conditions, including human rights abuses.

The extension of TPS for Cameroonians will benefit the 2,090 individuals currently under the program, allowing them to remain in the United States until June 7, 2025. Moreover, an estimated 7,900 additional Cameroonians in the United States will now have the opportunity to apply for TPS, offering them the chance to seek protection and work legally.

The decision to extend TPS for Cameroonians demonstrates the United States’ recognition of the need for humanitarian assistance and support for those affected by the conflict and human rights violations. It provides a temporary respite for Cameroonian nationals who would otherwise face the risk of deportation to a country engulfed in violence and instability.

The extension of TPS for Cameroonians underscores the United States’ commitment to upholding its humanitarian principles and offering a safe haven for those fleeing extraordinary circumstances. The move also sends a message of solidarity with the people of Cameroon, as the international community works towards finding lasting solutions to the conflict and promoting human rights in the country.

 

Source: Reuters

Algerian Authorities Tighten Health Measures at Borders Amid Bedbug Concerns

Algerian authorities have announced the implementation of stricter health measures at border crossings to prevent the spread of bedbugs, which have recently become a concern in French cities. The Algerian health ministry issued a statement on Thursday, declaring the application of international health regulations to anticipate any potential epidemiological developments.

The ministry, in collaboration with various authorities, has activated a health vigilance system to counter the infiltration of bedbugs. This includes health monitoring and disinfection protocols for aircraft, ships, and land transportation in response to any identified threats by border health control personnel.

Algerian Health Minister Abdelhak Saihi refuted claims on Tuesday that bedbugs had been detected within the country. However, with the heavy traffic between Algeria and France, Algerians have expressed concerns about the possibility of the insects being transmitted.

French Health Minister Aurelien Rousseau addressed public concerns on Tuesday, urging citizens not to panic regarding the bedbug infestation. The French government has pledged to take action to reassure and protect the public from the spread of bedbugs.

Numerous videos depicting the alarming spread of bedbugs in buses, trains, airports, and other public spaces in Paris have surfaced on various social media platforms. The infestation has garnered attention as Paris prepares to host the 2024 Olympic Games.

Bedbugs are small parasitic insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. They are commonly found in bedding and furniture and can cause itchy bites and infestations in homes and hotels.

The Algerian health ministry’s proactive measures at border crossings aim to prevent the introduction of bedbugs into the country. By implementing stringent health protocols, officials hope to safeguard public health and prevent a potential bedbug outbreak.

Lukhanyo Am Returns to Springboks Squad as Injury Replacement Ahead of Crucial World Cup Clash

In a thrilling turn of events, Lukhanyo Am has rejoined the South African squad as an injury replacement, just in time for a potential Rugby World Cup quarter-final next weekend. The outside centre, who played a pivotal role in the Springboks’ victory in the 2019 World Cup final, expressed his excitement to be back on the field after being forced to watch from the sidelines.

Am’s return comes as wing Makazole Mapimpi was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a facial fracture sustained in the team’s recent triumph over Tonga. Ironically, it was Am who assisted Mapimpi’s try in the 2019 final, and now he finds himself in a similar situation, albeit under less joyous circumstances.

While Am is eager to contribute to the team’s success, his appearance in the upcoming match is not guaranteed, as South Africa has not yet secured a spot in the quarter-finals. Their progression depends on the outcome of the Scotland vs. Ireland match, with South Africa advancing unless Scotland secures a victory over Ireland by 21 points or more, with both teams earning a bonus point.

Reflecting on his return, Am expressed his gratitude, saying, “It’s a good feeling to be back.” He acknowledged the frustration of having to watch the previous World Cup from home and described it as “something you love taken away from you.” Despite missing out on the original squad due to a knee injury, Am diligently focused on maintaining his fitness levels and staying prepared for a potential call-up.

However, Am’s lack of recent game-time raises concerns about his readiness for a high-stakes World Cup knockout game. The last time he played was in South Africa’s victory against Argentina on August 5. Nevertheless, Am remains confident in his abilities and highlighted the importance of mental preparation. He assured fans and the team that he is fit to play and ready to contribute if called upon.

As South Africa awaits their quarter-final fate, Am understands the responsibility that comes with his potential return to the pitch. He aims to swiftly regain his rhythm and seamlessly integrate into the team, should he be given the opportunity.

The Springboks’ supporters eagerly await the outcome of the crucial Scotland vs. Ireland encounter, hoping for a positive result that will allow Am and the team to continue their journey in the tournament.

 

Source: Reuters

Senegal Demands Agreement with TikTok, Maintains Ban Pending Resolution

In Senegal, authorities have upheld the ban on popular social media app TikTok, insisting that the company must sign an agreement that establishes a mechanism for removing accounts. The country’s communications minister, Moussa Bocar Thiam, announced during a press conference that the restriction would remain in place until a comprehensive written agreement is reached. The government is currently engaged in discussions with TikTok to address their concerns.

The ban on TikTok was implemented in August following the arrest of opposition leader Ousmane Sonko. Authorities claimed that the platform was being used to disseminate “hateful and subversive messages” that posed a threat to the country’s stability. The political tension between Sonko, the leader of the Pastef party, and President Macky Sall had previously sparked violent demonstrations in June, tarnishing Senegal’s reputation as the most stable democracy in West Africa.

In their ongoing discussions with TikTok, the Senegalese government has emphasised the need for improved regulation of the platform. They have raised questions regarding the platform’s algorithm and data protection measures. Additionally, the government has called for fair remuneration for content creators, aiming to provide young people with the opportunity to earn a livelihood through social media.

As the discussions continue, the ban on TikTok will remain in effect, underscoring the government’s commitment to resolving the issues at hand and ensuring the platform’s compliance with their requirements.

 

Source: Reuters

Mauritius’ Highest Court Strikes Down Colonial-Era Ban on Gay Sex, Embracing Indigenous Values

Mauritius’ highest court has delivered a groundbreaking ruling, decriminalising gay sex and affirming that the ban stemmed from colonial-era influence rather than reflecting indigenous Mauritian values.

The origins of the ban can be traced back to 1898 when British colonialists first criminalised “sodomy.” However, the law has not been enforced in recent years. In response to the court’s decision, the gay man who initiated the case expressed his newfound freedom to love without fear, stating, “I am now free to love whoever I want to without fear.”

This landmark ruling arrives during a period of increasing homophobia and the implementation of stricter anti-gay laws in some African nations. Notably, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni signed a controversial Anti-Homosexuality law in May, which imposed the death penalty for “aggravated homosexuality,” including sex with children or rape. Many individuals in Uganda and other African countries argue that homosexuality is “un-African” and contradicts their religious beliefs.

Abdool Ridwan Firaas Ah Seek, the individual who brought the case in Mauritius, argued that the “offence of sodomy” violated his fundamental rights, including the right to liberty. The Supreme Court agreed, stating that the law did not reflect indigenous Mauritian values but was instead a vestige of the country’s colonial history imposed by British rule on Mauritius and other colonies.

While the ruling ensures that people can no longer be arrested for engaging in gay sex, parliamentary action is required to officially legalise it by repealing the law.

Mauritius gained independence in 1968, but the ban on gay sex remained intact, facing strong opposition from religious groups. Abdool Ridwan Firaas Ah Seek expressed hope that the ruling would empower future generations in Mauritius to embrace their sexuality freely without the fear of arrest.

The Human Dignity Trust (HDT), an organisation advocating for the rights of LGBT people, hailed the ruling as the end of over a century of state-sanctioned stigma against the LGBT community in Mauritius. The HDT further emphasised that the ruling should serve as a message to other African countries that still criminalise same-sex relations, urging them to abolish such laws.

Although the law in Mauritius currently imposes a prison sentence of up to five years for gay sex, it is considered largely obsolete in practice, according to the HDT.

Globally, there are 64 countries that criminalise homosexuality, with nearly half of them located in Africa.

 

Source: Reuters

Visa Uncertainty Casts Shadow on Educational Opportunities for West African Students in France

Alphonse Nikiema, a medical student from Burkina Faso, couldn’t contain his excitement upon receiving an email from his university. The message signalled a glimmer of hope, allowing him to resume visa paperwork for his upcoming training at a French hospital next year. This development comes after months of uncertainty caused by France’s suspension of consular services in Burkina Faso, leaving hundreds of students, researchers, and artists in limbo as they awaited their visas for professional trips to France.

The strained relations between France and several West African nations, including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, have been exacerbated by political coups over the past three years. The juntas that seized power have taken a hostile stance against France, resulting in the expulsion of French troops and ambassadors and a surge in anti-French sentiment.

Critics argue that France has maintained excessive economic and political influence over its former colonies long after they gained independence. While France claims to have moved away from this dynamic, the deteriorating relationship with some West African states has affected not only diplomatic ties but also longstanding cultural connections.

The visa predicament, along with the suspension of French development aid and cooperation, coincides with President Emmanuel Macron’s efforts to reset relations with African nations that were once under French colonial rule. These efforts are motivated by increasing competition for influence from global powers like Russia and China.

According to a French diplomatic source, France issued 907 student and trainee visas to individuals from Burkina Faso, 689 to Malians, and 436 to Nigeriens last year. However, this year, students, doctors, artists, and business people from these three Sahel states, who have traditionally sought education and work opportunities in France, are being forced to reconsider their plans, risking a year’s delay in their aspirations.

For Nikiema, the possibility of spending a year in France for his mandatory psychiatry specialisation had almost faded away. He had resigned himself to doing his internship in a hospital in Burkina Faso instead. “Being able to go to another country and have a different experience is enriching,” he expressed wistfully.

Tondri Yara, an international law student, stood outside a French visa center in the capital city of Ouagadougou, hoping for positive news. Since October 2022, Yara had been preparing for his exchange program at a university campus in France. However, he now finds himself grappling with the last-minute visa hurdle. “Changing plans at this stage requires a significant amount of energy,” he lamented.

Yara has considered alternative options for his thesis, which was originally intended to be completed in France. Burkina Faso, Canada, Switzerland, and Belgium are all viable alternatives, albeit with the potential for delays in the process.

French authorities have reassured students, artists, and researchers already present in France that they are still welcome and can continue pursuing their activities. However, the uncertainty surrounding visa issuance casts a shadow over the educational opportunities and professional experiences that have long been accessible to West African students in France.

According to data from the French agency Campus France, which promotes French higher institutions abroad, there were over 3,100 students from Mali, 2,300 from Burkina Faso, and 1,100 from Niger studying in French public institutions during the 2021-22 academic year. These numbers highlight the significant impact of the visa challenges on the educational landscape for West African students in France.

 

Source: Reuters

Real Madrid Star Vinicius Junior Testifies in Racist Attacks Investigation

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior appeared before a judge in Valencia on Thursday as part of an investigation into racist attacks directed at him during a league match held in the city on May 21. The Brazilian player expressed feeling “offended” by the insults he received, emphasizing that they were targeted at his skin color. The Valencia club expressed surprise and demanded a public rectification from Vinicius, denying that the entire Valencian public should be stigmatized.

During the hearing, Vinicius, dressed in a white shirt and dark suit, provided his testimony via video-conference from a court in Madrid. Afterward, he left without speaking to the press. The player has been a frequent target of racist attacks throughout his career.

The incident occurred around the 70th minute of the match when Vinicius pointed out a fan who had allegedly called him a “monkey.” The players reported the incident to the referee, leading to a temporary interruption of the game and the activation of the racism protocol.

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed hearing the racist slur, prompting the referee’s intervention. Following the match, Vinicius took to Instagram, expressing that racism had become the norm in La Liga and vowing to fight against it relentlessly.

In response to Vinicius’s statements, the Valencia club expressed “surprise” and “indignation,” urging the player to rectify his remarks publicly, as they believe he unfairly targeted the entire Mestalla stadium.

A day after the match, a court in Valencia initiated an investigation into a “hate crime” based on complaints filed by the Liga public prosecutor’s office. Three young men were subsequently arrested, with one of them directly named by the player and the other two identified through CCTV footage. While the suspects admitted to the offenses, they denied any hateful or racist intent towards Vinicius.

The investigation continues, and Vinicius’s testimony will play a crucial role in shedding light on the incident and determining the appropriate legal actions to be taken. The case serves as a stark reminder that racism has no place in football or society, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to combat discrimination in all its forms.

Legal Battle Over Controversial Deportation Scheme Puts British Government’s Immigration Agenda on the Line

Next week, the British government will make a concerted effort to convince the country’s top court to overturn a ruling that deemed its contentious plan to deport asylum seekers arriving in small boats across the Channel to Rwanda as unlawful. This setback for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government and its promise to “stop the boats” came after London’s Court of Appeal declared in June that the scheme, which involved transporting migrants more than 4,000 miles (6,400 km) to East Africa, was not legally permissible. The court stated that Rwanda could not be considered a safe third country.

On Monday, government lawyers will argue at the Supreme Court that the previous ruling was incorrect, while lawyers representing migrants from Syria, Iraq, Iran, Vietnam, and Sudan will present their case, aiming to demonstrate that the entire scheme is fundamentally flawed.

The stakes are high for Sunak, who has made addressing immigration one of his administration’s top priorities. Successfully tackling the issue could reinvigorate the fortunes of his Conservative Party, which currently lags behind by approximately 20 points in opinion polls ahead of the expected elections next year.

“A government that fails to deliver on its promises will always face consequences. We need to take control of this issue,” said Conservative lawmaker Brendan Clarke-Smith during the party’s annual conference this week, emphasising the political significance of the matter.

Sunak and his ministers argue that the Rwanda scheme, initiated by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson last year, would dismantle the business model of human traffickers and dissuade individuals from undertaking perilous journeys across the Channel in inflatable boats and dinghies. In August, six people drowned, while in November 2021, 27 perished attempting the crossing.

Opponents of the scheme contend that it is unethical, costly, and ultimately ineffective. Their ranks include human rights organisations, lawmakers from various parties (including some Conservatives), the Archbishop of Canterbury, and even reports of private reservations from King Charles, as suggested by the media.

The fate of the deportation scheme now rests with five judges, including Supreme Court President Robert Reed, who will commence hearings focusing primarily on technical legal arguments over the course of three days, starting on Monday.

IMMIGRATION
Like many European nations, Britain has grappled with how to address the influx of migrants, often fleeing war-torn regions in the Middle East, Africa, and Afghanistan.

In a speech to Conservative Party members on Tuesday, Home Secretary Suella Braverman warned of an impending “hurricane” of migrants and pledged to halt what she referred to as “bogus asylum seekers.”

Immigration played a significant role in the 2016 Brexit vote, with the promise that Britain would regain control of its borders.

Despite government commitments to reduce arrivals, overall net migration has continued to rise, reaching a record high of 606,000 last year. This year, over 25,000 people have arrived in Britain via small boats, while 2022 saw a record 45,755 detections.

The cost of Britain’s strained asylum system, with approximately 135,000 people awaiting decisions, surpasses £3 billion ($3.6 billion) annually. Housing some of these migrants in hotels costs around £6 million per day.

A new law, enacted in July, makes it a legal obligation for the Home Secretary to deport migrants who arrive without permission either to their home country or to a safe third country. Rwanda is the only country with which Britain has signed such an agreement.

The government estimates that the average cost of sending each asylum seeker to Rwanda would amount to £169,000. Other cost-saving measures, such as housing claimants on military bases, have faced strong opposition, often from local Conservative lawmakers. Additionally, a barge anchored off the south coast to accommodate hundreds of migrants was vacated after a few days due to the discovery of Legionella bacteria in the water supply.

Opinion polls consistently show that high levels of immigration remain a major concern for voters, although they also reveal support for migrants filling labor shortages. What the surveys do indicate is that a clear majority believes the government is mishandling the issue.

“If we manage to reduce the level of illegal immigration, I believe people will support us in the next election,” remarked Clarke-Smith, highlighting the electoral implications of the government’s approach.

($1 = 0.8278 pounds)

 

Source: Reuters

AWS Expands Footprint in Africa: Development Centre to Open in Nairobi

Amazon Web Services (AWS), the leading cloud-computing division of the company, announced on Wednesday its plans to establish a development centre in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. This move aims to foster job creation in software development, cloud support, and software engineering, further solidifying Kenya’s reputation as the “Silicon Savannah” and one of Africa’s prominent technology hubs.

With a vibrant ecosystem that accommodates global tech giants and thriving startups, Kenya has become a key player in the African technology landscape. The AWS development centre is poised to provide the local market with access to a vast pool of technical talent, according to Uwem Ukpong, Vice President of Global Services at AWS.

As the world’s largest cloud computing provider, AWS serves a wide range of notable companies, including Netflix (NFLX.O), General Electric (GE.N), and Sony (6758.T). Its services enable storage, networking, and remote security solutions for businesses across various industries.

Kenya’s President William Ruto expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion of the technology sector, highlighting its role in driving growth and job creation amid global uncertainties. The establishment of AWS’s development centre in Nairobi signals a vote of confidence in Kenya’s tech ecosystem and its potential for further advancement in the digital realm.

The move by AWS not only strengthens Kenya’s position as a technology hub but also opens up new opportunities for local tech professionals and entrepreneurs. The development centre is expected to foster innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing within the local tech community, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic development and digital transformation.

With AWS’s investment in Nairobi, Kenya is poised to further accelerate its technological progress, attract more international players, and solidify its reputation as a hotbed of innovation in Africa. The development centre will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of cloud computing and digital services on the continent.

 

Source: Reuters

FIFA Reveals Joint Hosting of 2030 World Cup Across Three Continents

In a groundbreaking announcement, FIFA revealed that the 2030 World Cup will be jointly hosted by Europe, Africa, and South America, with an added surprise—the tournament will commence with a commemorative celebration of its 100th anniversary in Uruguay.

The agreement, reached among the continental football leaders, stipulates that only one candidate will be accepted to host the 2030 tournament, as confirmed by FIFA. Initially comprising Spain and Portugal, the bid expanded this year to include Morocco, and it has now welcomed long-standing bid rivals Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. All six national teams will be granted automatic entry into the 48-team tournament, according to FIFA.

This historic decision marks the first time the World Cup will be played across multiple continents. The inclusion of South America, with the opening match scheduled to take place in Montevideo, Uruguay, at the Centenario Stadium—the very venue where the inaugural 1930 World Cup final was hosted—is a significant draw. Alejandro Domínguez, President of the South American soccer governing body CONMEBOL, expressed the sentiment that “the centennial World Cup could not be far from South America, where everything began.” He further emphasized that the 2030 tournament would be held across three continents.

This consensus among once-rival soccer continents has also expedited the opening of the bidding process for the 2034 World Cup. The contest will be limited to member federations from Asia and Oceania, with Saudi Arabia having already expressed its interest, and Australia showing keenness after the successful co-hosting of this year’s Women’s World Cup alongside New Zealand. It is highly likely that the 2034 tournament will be held in November and December, similar to the schedule of the previous World Cup in Qatar.

The decision to accelerate the selection of the 2034 host, to be made by the end of next year, is seen as a triumph for Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has cultivated close ties with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Yasser Al Misehal, President of the Saudi soccer federation and a member of the FIFA Council, stated the country’s intention to bid, highlighting the desire to showcase their football culture and share their nation with the world.

While the FIFA Council’s acceptance of the unified 2030 candidacy still requires formal approval at a meeting of the 211 member federations next year, it is expected to be a mere formality. The selection for the 2034 host will be made at a separate congress.

Infantino expressed enthusiasm for the unique global footprint that the 2030 World Cup will offer, spanning three continents and involving six countries. He stated, “In 2030, we will have a unique global footprint, three continents—Africa, Europe, and South America—six countries—Argentina, Morocco, Paraguay, Portugal, Spain, and Uruguay—welcoming and uniting the world while celebrating together the beautiful game, the centenary, and the FIFA World Cup.”

The 2030 tournament, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, is planned to commence with matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay before transitioning to the core host nations of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

The ambitious travel requirements and time zone differences outlined in the plan have not been well-received by Football Supporters Europe (FSE), the officially recognized fan group of UEFA. In their statement, FSE criticized FIFA for perpetuating a cycle of destruction that they believe will adversely impact supporters and disregard environmental concerns. Additionally, they expressed concern about the decision to potentially award the 2034 hosting rights to a nation with a contentious human rights record.

While Chile’s inclusion in the South American co-host bid has been promoted since the 2018 World Cup, it was not mentioned in the recent announcement. Ukraine, which was added to the European bid last year, was also conspicuous by its absence from official comments about the UEFA-backed bid this year.

The United States, Canada, and Mexico are set to host the first 48-team men’s World Cup in 2026.

The selection of the 2030 host represents a significant triumph for Morocco, which has made substantial infrastructure investments in its major cities and was recently chosen to host the 2025 African Cup of Nations. The success of the Moroccan men’s national team, which reached the World Cup semifinals in Qatar and eliminated Spain and Portugal in previous rounds, further bolstered the country’s bid. Morocco will become the second African nation, after South Africa in 2010, to host the prestigious tournament.

In a statement, the Royal Cabinet of Moroccan King Mohammed VI hailed the selection as a recognition of Morocco’s esteemed position among great nations.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, expressing concerns about the bid’s potential derailment if Luis Rubiales remained in office, emphasized Spain’s commitment to showcasing their country’s strength as champions of both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles. He further underlined the importanceTitle: Unprecedented Unity: Europe, Africa, and South America Join Forces for a Landmark 2030 World Cup

In an extraordinary move, FIFA has announced a groundbreaking decision for the 2030 World Cup, which will see Europe, Africa, and South America come together to host the tournament. The surprise addition of South America was made to commemorate the event’s 100th anniversary in Uruguay, where the inaugural World Cup final took place in 1930.

FIFA has reached an agreement among the continental leaders of football to accept only one candidate for hosting the 2030 tournament. The bid, initially led by Spain and Portugal, expanded this year to include Morocco and has now welcomed Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay as long-standing rivals. Notably, all six national teams will receive automatic entry into the 48-team tournament.

This historic decision marks the first time the World Cup will span multiple continents. The opening match will take place in Montevideo, Uruguay, at the iconic Centenario Stadium, paying homage to the tournament’s origins. Alejandro Domínguez, President of the South American soccer governing body CONMEBOL, emphasized the significance of hosting the centennial World Cup in South America, where it all began. He declared that the 2030 tournament will truly be a global event played across three continents.

The unity achieved by the once-rival soccer continents has also accelerated the bidding contest for the 2034 World Cup, which will be limited to member federations from Asia and Oceania. Saudi Arabia has wasted no time in entering this contest, with Australia expressing interest as well, following their successful co-hosting of the Women’s World Cup this year alongside New Zealand. It is highly likely that the 2034 tournament will be scheduled for November and December, similar to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The decision to expedite the selection of the 2034 host by the end of next year is viewed as a victory for Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who has established close ties with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Yasser Al Misehal, President of the Saudi soccer federation and a member of the FIFA Council, expressed their country’s intention to bid and emphasized the desire to showcase their football culture and open their nation to the world.

While the FIFA Council’s acceptance of the unified 2030 candidacy still awaits formal approval at a meeting of the 211 member federations next year, it is expected to be a mere formality. The selection for the 2034 host will be made at a separate congress.

Infantino expressed his excitement about the unique global footprint that the 2030 World Cup will create, spanning three continents and involving six countries. He highlighted the significance of welcoming and uniting the world to celebrate the beautiful game, the centenary, and the FIFA World Cup. The tournament, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, is scheduled to commence with matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay before transitioning to the core host nations of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

The ambitious travel requirements and time zone challenges outlined in the plan have faced criticism from Football Supporters Europe (FSE), the officially recognized fan group of UEFA. FSE expressed their concerns, stating that FIFA’s decisions disregard the fans, the environment, and potentially award the hosting rights to a nation with questionable human rights records.

Chile’s inclusion in the South American co-host bid, promoted since the 2018 World Cup, was not mentioned in the recent announcement. Similarly, Ukraine, which joined the European bid last year, has not been mentioned in official comments regarding the UEFA-backed bid this year.

The United States, Canada, and Mexico are set to host the first 48-team men’s World Cup in 2026.

The selection of the 2030 host represents a significant victory for Morocco, which has made substantial infrastructure investments in its major cities and was recently chosen to host the 2025 African Cup of Nations. The success of the Moroccan men’s national team in the previous World Cup, where they reached the semifinals and eliminated Spain and Portugal, further bolstered the country’s bid. Morocco will become the second African nation, after South Africa in 2010, to host the prestigious tournament.

In a statement, the Royal Cabinet of Moroccan King Mohammed VI expressed their pride in the selection, stating that it recognizes Morocco’s esteemed position among great nations.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, expressing concerns about potential bid derailment, highlighted Spain’s commitment to showcasing their country’s strength as champions of both the men’s and women’s World Cup titles. He further emphasized the importance of upholding values such as equality, solidarity, and fair play in sports.