Morocco is preparing to build the 115,000-seat Stade Hassan II, which could become one of the main venues at the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Populous says the stadium is designed to meet FIFA requirements and would be capable of hosting the tournament’s final.
The stadium is planned for El Mansouria in the province of Benslimane, around 38km north of Casablanca. With space for 115,000 spectators, it is expected to become the largest purpose-built soccer stadium in the world.
Populous is designing the venue alongside Paris-based architecture studio Oualalou + Choi. Their design takes inspiration from the moussem, a traditional Moroccan gathering that brings communities together for social and cultural events.
That influence is clearest in the vast tent-like roof covering the stands and surrounding areas. Supported by an aluminium lattice, the canopy is designed to provide shade while giving the stadium a shape rooted in Moroccan culture.
At either end of the pitch, three steep tiers will hold 29,500 general admission spectators. Five levels of hospitality seating will run along the main stands, including spaces for VIP guests and members of the royal box.
The wider site will extend beyond the main stadium bowl. Plans include training grounds, gardens and smaller sporting venues, helping the complex remain useful outside major match days.
Morocco will co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal, while Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will stage three centenary matches. FIFA has not yet confirmed which stadium will host the final, so Stade Hassan II’s role remains undecided.
Even without the final, its size and distinctive roof could make it one of the tournament’s defining venues. The design gives Morocco a stadium large enough for soccer’s biggest stage without losing the cultural references that inspired it.