Bilbao and Donostia have joined forces for the 2030 Football World Cup. The city councils of both capitals, the provincial councils of Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa, the Basque Government, Athletic, and Real Sociedad submitted a joint document to FIFA on the first of the month, reaffirming their strong commitment to the selection process for hosting the major international sporting event.

This decision, made in a coordinated manner and within the strict deadlines set by the football federation, followed a technical feasibility study where the involved public administrations prioritized a national perspective and the general interest of the territory. The joint proposal not only rationalizes public spending by sustainably distributing the organizational burden between the Bizkaia and Gipuzkoa territories but also serves as a shield against FIFA's historical demands.

The provincial council spokesperson, Leixuri Arrizabalaga, described the decision as an exercise in "responsibility and seriousness" by the Basque administrations, who are "already accustomed to working collaboratively" to attract international events. "It was considered that the most reasonable and appropriate approach was to present a single candidacy," she recalled, noting that FIFA's requirements for hosting matches are "very demanding" in terms of mobility and economics.

Indeed, she pointed out that both capitals are separated by just 100 kilometers. "In a small country like ours, it made no sense to present two venues," she reiterated. "It was much more reasonable to present a joint candidacy with Bilbao and Donostia." The decision, she continued, was made after "deep reflection: World Cup yes, but not at any cost," aiming to "be responsible."

Furthermore, she expressed confidence that the bid will be successful and "Bilbao and Donostia can be host cities in the future," which would allow them to "demonstrate, as a country, our capacity to organize large-scale events, and do so successfully." The provincial spokesperson also dismissed the idea that not being selected by FIFA would be a "failure." "Not at all," she stated emphatically. "Basque institutions have been working collaboratively to bring these types of events for years. We have attracted many, others have fallen by the wayside, and we have never considered it a failure," she concluded.