Animal rights activists claim Morocco plans to execute up to three million stray dogs ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup to clear streets for the event. This alleged “culling” has drawn sharp criticism, with conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall leading a call for action. Goodall, in an open letter to FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström, condemned the mass killings and urged FIFA to suspend Morocco’s hosting rights until humane animal management practices are implemented.
The Moroccan government previously claimed such killings stopped in August 2024, but reports suggest otherwise. The International Animal Welfare Protection Coalition (IAWPC) has demanded urgent intervention from FIFA to impose conditions protecting both stray and owned dogs. IAWPC president Les Ward emphasized that failure to act should result in Morocco losing its co-host status.
Goodall warned of reputational damage to FIFA if it remains complicit in what she described as a “horrific act of barbarity.” Animal rights groups have also held ceremonies to honor the lives of dogs reportedly killed, urging global support for humane treatment of animals.
The controversy highlights the ethical concerns surrounding global sporting events and their impact on local communities, including animal populations. FIFA has yet to respond to the allegations.