MADRID, March 16 (Xinhua) -- The Spanish city of A Coruna has withdrawn Deportivo La Coruna's Estadio Riazor from contention as a venue for the 2030 FIFA World Cup to be hosted by Spain, Morocco and Portugal.
Mayor Ines Rey confirmed the decision on Monday, saying the city had chosen to focus on projects better suited to its needs.
"We have taken a responsible decision to renounce the candidacy to be a host city in the World Cup, to focus our efforts on a more appropriate project for A Coruna," Rey said.
The Riazor has a capacity of 32,490 and is expected to undergo upgrades in the coming years, although the planned renovation is believed to fall short of the extensive requirements needed to host World Cup matches.
Celta Vigo's Balaidos stadium remains a candidate venue and is currently being remodeled with the aim of hosting matches during the 2030 tournament. ■
