FIFA names Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup host

Soccer Football - FIFA confirm Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup hosts, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - December 11, 2024 A drone show is seen displaying the words "Welcome to Saudi 34" as Saudi Arabia is announced as the host nation for the FIFA World Cup 2034 Saudi Arabia Football Association/Handout via REUTERS ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY. TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

Source: Handout

Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the official host of the FIFA World Cup scheduled for 2034.

This comes despite criticism over its human rights record.

FIFA announced the decision on December 11, after Saudi Arabia emerged as the only country to bid for the tournament.

The decision was made during an online meeting of FIFA members led by President Gianni Infantino.

With this, Saudi Arabia will need to build or upgrade 15 stadiums and other facilities for the event.

Local sources indicate that the 2034 World Cup final will take place across five Saudi cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Abha, and Neom.

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the country aims to deliver an “exceptional” World Cup.

The tournament forms part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to modernise its economy and society.

The World Cup is expected to take place in January 2034 to avoid extreme heat and a clash with the holy month of Ramadan.

Meanwhile, critics have accused the kingdom of using sports as a distraction from its human rights issues, a practice often called "sportswashing."

Rights groups like Amnesty International have criticised the decision by FIFA, warning it puts migrant workers’ lives at risk.

Scenes in Riyadh after the announcement:

Wonder Hagan