Morocco ‘challenges’ Spain with another mega-stadium

Morocco unveiled the newly renovated Ibn Battuta Stadium in Tangier on Friday with a match against Mozambique.

The facelift positions the venue to host several games in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations and to serve as one of the showcase stadiums for the 2030 World Cup. It will directly compete with Spain’s venues for high-profile matches, much like Casablanca’s planned mega-stadium, which is aiming to challenge Madrid’s Bernabéu stadium in the bid to host the World Cup final.

Bigger, bolder, more modern

The revamped Ibn Battuta now seats 75,600 fans, including more than 5,800 VIP seats and suites. In terms of capacity, it is eligible to host quarterfinal and semifinal matches at the World Cup. Renovations focused on the interior: the running track was removed to improve comfort and create a more immersive atmosphere for spectators.

One of the highlights is the stadium’s massive new roof — now among the largest in Africa. Moroccan engineers completed the upgrade in just 69 days, using advanced architectural fabric designed to withstand heat, humidity, and wind while allowing natural light to filter through.

A stadium with history

The Ibn Battuta Stadium already holds a unique place in Spanish soccer history. In 2018, it became the first foreign venue to host a Spanish national tournament final, when Barcelona defeated Sevilla 2–1 in the Spanish Supercup.

The stadium is named after Ibn Battuta, the legendary 14th-century Arab explorer born in Tangier, often called the “Marco Polo of the Arab world.” His legacy is celebrated across the Muslim world, and Tangier’s airport also bears his name.

Looking ahead

Tangier now boasts one of Africa’s premier stadiums — and one of the most advanced in the world. It is set to host at least one semifinal in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (December 21–January 18) and is expected to play a central role in the 2030 World Cup.

Morocco’s Ibn Battuta Stadium is positioning itself as a global stage — a venue ready to rival Spain’s iconic arenas when the World Cup arrives in 2030.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment.Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.