Rabat – The Spanish city of La Coruna has announced it will no longer pursue hosting matches at the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly organized by Spain, Morocco, and Portugal.
The decision was confirmed by the city’s mayor, Ines Rey, during a press conference held alongside Deportivo La Coruna president Juan Carlos Escotet and Valentin Gonzalez Formoso, head of the provincial council.
Rey explained that the move followed a careful review of what would be best for the city in the long term. While La Coruna had hoped to be part of the tournament, she said the project needed to make sense beyond the short period of the competition.
“We wanted La Coruna to be a host city for the World Cup, but not at any cost,” Rey said. “The circumstances we faced recently required a calm evaluation of what is truly best for the city. This decision does not close a door; it opens a new stage.”
Instead of focusing on hosting matches, local authorities and club officials have agreed on a major redevelopment plan for the city’s main sports facilities. The agreement includes a full renovation of the Riazor Stadium, home of Deportivo La Coruna, as well as upgrades to the nearby sports complex.
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According to the mayor, the project aims to modernize the entire sports area, including the stadium, the Palacio de los Deportes arena, and other athletic facilities.
“The World Cup would have been important for a few days,” Rey said. “But the project we are launching today is designed to serve the city for decades.”
Valentin Gonzalez Formoso also welcomed the agreement, describing it as a shared commitment between the institutions involved. He said the redevelopment plan will help improve the infrastructure that the city has needed for some time.
“Our commitment to this project is absolute,” he said. “La Coruna deserves a clear investment in its sports facilities, and we hope this effort will also be reflected in sporting success.”
Deportivo president Juan Carlos Escotet echoed that view, calling the agreement positive for both the club and the city. He said the partnership reflects the close connection between Deportivo and the local community.
“We aim to create a space that generates value every day of the year,” Escotet said. “This project goes beyond sport. It is about responsible and sustainable development for the city.”
La Coruna now joins Malaga among the Spanish cities that have stepped away from the race to host matches during the 2030 World Cup.
