Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the sole host for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. The decision was finalized at a FIFA extraordinary congress on the 11th. In 2030, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will co-host the tournament, marking the centenary of the World Cup. Despite the international criticism over its human rights and press freedom records, Saudi Arabia secured its bid after other potential hosts like Australia and Indonesia withdrew.
Following Qatar’s 2022 tournament, the World Cup will return to the Middle East after 12 years, with expectations that the games will again be held in winter due to the heat. Saudi Arabia is also set to host the 2034 Asian Games, raising the possibility of a schedule adjustment for the World Cup.
Criticism over Saudi’s human rights abuses persists, with accusations of “sportswashing” – using sporting events to polish its global image. U.S. senators have urged FIFA to select a host that upholds human rights, countering Saudi’s repressive domestic policies.
Nevertheless, figures like Brazilian star Neymar, playing in the Saudi Pro League, have expressed support, suggesting the potential for the 2034 World Cup to be the best yet. Meanwhile, the 2030 World Cup will celebrate its 100th anniversary by also hosting matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay, with the opening match in Uruguay at the Estadio Centenario, the site of the first-ever World Cup match in 1930.