For the first time in the history of world football, a city may voluntarily refuse to host World Cup matches. Public organizations in San Sebastian have sent an official protest to FIFA, opposing the inclusion of their city in the list of hosts of the 2030 World Cup, euro-pulse.ru reports.
Despite the fact that San Sebastian was included among the 11 Spanish cities that will host the World Cup, the local population is concerned about the possible consequences. The main reason for the protest is the aggravation of the problem of excessive tourism.
Activists have calculated that over the past nine years, the tourist flow has increased by almost 80%. City residents are concerned that their hometown is becoming unaffordable and losing its unique identity.
The city administration does not share the residents' concerns and is in favor of hosting the championship, emphasizing the economic benefits and increasing the city's international prestige.
Now the fate of San Sebastian as the host city of the 2030 World Cup is in the hands of the championship's organizing committee.
