Morocco’s parliamentary election has become a referendum on the 2030 World Cup, which the country will co-host with Spain and Portugal. At the center of the political discussion is Fouzi Lekjaa, the head of Morocco’s football federation and the country’s budget minister, who has emerged as a frontrunner for prime minister. Supporters credit him with strengthening Morocco’s national team and argue that his approach to football could translate into broader economic gains. Critics, however, question whether the $20 billion spent on World Cup infrastructure would have been better spent addressing unemployment and strained public services. As of 2025, youth unemployment in the country stood at 37%. While officials say the tournament could add 1.7% to annual growth and create 100,000 jobs a year, many young Moroccans remain unconvinced. The election has therefore become a test of public support for the government’s World Cup investment strategy.