Saudi Arabia has officially been confirmed by FIFA as the host nation for the 2034 FIFA Men’s World Cup, marking a significant milestone in the kingdom’s ambitious investment in global sports under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership.
With no rival bids, Saudi Arabia’s unopposed candidacy was applauded during an online FIFA meeting chaired by president Gianni Infantino. Addressing over 200 FIFA member federations, Infantino declared, “The vote of the congress is loud and clear,” as participants visibly showed their support via virtual applause.
The announcement also finalised hosting arrangements for the 2030 World Cup, which will see Spain, Portugal, and Morocco co-hosting, while Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay will each host one of the tournament’s 104 matches to commemorate the centenary of the inaugural World Cup held in Uruguay in 1930.
However, Saudi Arabia’s selection has drawn sharp criticism from human rights organisations, who warn of risks to migrant workers involved in massive infrastructure projects, including the construction of 15 stadiums and facilities like hotels and transport systems.
Critics also accuse FIFA of failing to demand safeguards against potential human rights abuses, with Amnesty International branding the decision a “reckless” move.
Saudi Arabia plans to invest billions as part of Vision 2030, an initiative to modernise its economy and society. These efforts include constructing state-of-the-art stadiums, such as one set 350 metres above ground in Neom, a futuristic city currently under development, and another designed atop a 200-metre cliff near Riyadh.
FIFA’s rapid acceptance of Saudi Arabia’s bid followed a rule change allowing only nations in Asia and Oceania to compete, given the multi-continent hosting arrangement for 2030. FIFA provided a mere four weeks for submissions, leaving Saudi Arabia unchallenged.
While FIFA has defended the decision, claiming the tournament could drive progressive reforms, many see it as part of a broader “sportswashing” strategy to enhance the kingdom’s global image.
The announcement has also sparked debate over scheduling, with extreme summer heat and the holy month of Ramadan complicating the usual tournament timeframe. A January 2034 start has been floated as a possibility, aligning better with European club football and avoiding a clash with the Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.
Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in sports, underscored by high-profile investments such as acquiring top football players and forging partnerships with FIFA and international sports bodies, indicates the kingdom’s intent to remain a central figure in the global sports landscape.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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