Former FIFA President, Sepp Blatter, criticized the decision of the World Football Federation (FIFA) to hold the World Cup in six countries on three continents in 2030. Morocco, Spain and Portugal were selected as hosts for football’s highest tournament. However, Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay will also host the opening matches to mark the 100th anniversary of the World Cup.
The first World Cup took place in 1930. At that time, Uruguay was the host. Thus, the 2030 World Cup will be a new history in this football celebration event. Because, Spain and Portugal, who represent the European Continent, and Morocco, who represents the African Continent, are both hosting the World Cup. While Uruguay, Paraguay dan Argentina represented America continent.
The decision was criticized by Sepp Blatter, FIFA president from 1998 to 2015, before being forced out following a corruption investigation. “It makes no sense to disrupt the tournament in this way,” Blatter said as quoted by Reuters. “The World Cup final should be a close event,” he said.
Blatter is a figure who has influence in world football organizations. He once criticized Qatar for being chosen to host the 2018 World Cup. He said the Middle Eastern country was too small. This 87 year old man said that the 2030 World Cup should be held in South America. This entry is based on the 100th anniversary of the World Cup, hosted by the country that first hosted and became champion in 1930, namely Uruguay. “For historical reasons, the 2030 World Cup should belong exclusively to South America,” Blatter said.
Even though the 2030 World Cup will take place in six countries and three continents, this is still welcomed by Gianni Infantino (President of FIFA). “In a divided world, FIFA and football are united,” said Gianni. The FIFA president said it was a message of peace. “As a good message of peace, tolerance and inclusion,” he added.
One of the things highlighted in the 2030 World Cup is the fitness of the players playing. This is because the players will play at different times and need to adapt when moving continents.