Gran Canaria has begun its journey towards hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup by establishing the Gran Canaria Venue Committee. This body will unite public administrations, private companies, and social agents in working groups to develop the island's candidacy.
With a visit from FIFA scheduled for 26 November, the initial meeting has set the stage for the creation of commissions focused on mobility, transport, accommodation, infrastructure, and new technologies, in addition to football-related matters and the ongoing renovation of the Gran Canaria Stadium. The renovation project has recently been awarded to the joint venture OHLA-Sando.
Antonio Morales, President of the Gran Canaria Cabildo, emphasised that since 2024, necessary steps have been taken to ensure all essential stages are covered in Gran Canaria's development as a World Cup host. He highlighted the stadium's renovation as a project that will not only serve as an extraordinary architectural icon but also as a cornerstone for social, economic, and sporting development for both the city and the island.
Morales noted that FIFA's visit coincides with the evaluation of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria as a candidate for the 2031 European Capital of Culture, underscoring the island's vibrant cultural and sporting scene and its capacity to tackle significant challenges as an insular territory.
Carolina Darias, Mayor of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, stated that the formation of the committee represents a solid step towards hosting the 2030 World Cup, thanks to the clear and evident commitment from the entire Gran Canarian society, both public and private. She remarked, "This committee signifies our determination to demonstrate our capability as cities on the island to host the World Cup." Darias will also present the 'Rebellion of Geography' candidacy for the European Capital of Culture in 2031 on the same day as FIFA's visit.
She expressed that the simultaneous evaluation visits should not be viewed as a setback but rather as a significant opportunity to showcase Gran Canaria's ability to host two major events that will mark a turning point in the city's history: the World Cup in 2030 and the European Capital of Culture in 2031.
