Animal welfare groups are urging FIFA to take a hard line against Morocco over what they describe as a brutal campaign to cull street dogs ahead of the 2030 World Cup.
Morocco is set to co host the tournament with Spain and Portugal, with additional matches planned in Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina to mark the event’s centenary. The country is also preparing to host the Africa Cup of Nations later this year, a moment that has intensified scrutiny of its treatment of stray animals.
Morocco has long grappled with an enormous stray dog population. Estimates suggest that as many as three million dogs roam its streets, many unvaccinated and contributing to the spread of rabies and other diseases.
Authorities say they are committed to a humane Trap Neuter Vaccinate Release programme intended to reduce the population over time. Animal protection organisations argue that this pledge is being ignored in practice.
A recent report carried by The Telegraph included eyewitness accounts of dogs being shot, poisoned or burned alive in public spaces. The International Animal Welfare Protection Coalition estimates that as many as ten thousand dogs a week are being killed in this manner. The organisation says it has compiled extensive evidence showing widespread and systematic abuse, often carried out in full view of residents.
FIFA’s own assessment of Morocco’s bid acknowledged written guarantees that stray dog numbers would be reduced while respecting animal welfare. The new allegations place pressure on football’s governing body to intervene. Groups including PETA accuse FIFA of ignoring mounting evidence and prioritising commercial interests over animal rights.
PETA argues that FIFA has both moral responsibility and leverage. It has called on the organisation to withdraw hosting rights if Morocco fails to end what it describes as mass slaughter. The group has also urged FIFA to fund sterilisation programmes that could address the issue more sustainably.
