Overview
- Representatives of the Spanish Football Federation told Vigo officials on Saturday that the city is a candidate with the same rights as the other shortlisted host cities after a CSD‑convened meeting.
- FIFA has not yet replied to the RFEF letter requesting Vigo's inclusion and is expected to send formal documentation on requirements next week with a final decision due in autumn 2026.
- Mayor Abel Caballero said the city will press ahead with works at Balaídos, including the Gol stand and collector relocation, and will send a draft financing agreement proposing the city, the Xunta and the Diputación split Tribuna costs in thirds.
- The Diputación of Pontevedra, through vice‑president Luisa Sánchez, says Vigo has not provided the project plans or budgets needed and is demanding a clear roadmap, timelines and costed files before committing funds.
- Vigo must recover roughly two years of lost preparation after its 2024 exclusion over altered RFEF exam scores, and meeting FIFA's safety, technical and operational requirements on a compressed schedule will determine whether it is finally ratified.