FIFA Awards Saudi Arabia 2034 World Cup, Morocco to Co-Host 2030 Tournament
FIFA has confirmed that the 2034 World Cup will be held in Saudi Arabia, with Morocco joining Spain and Portugal to co-host the 2030 tournament. The decision was ratified at an online FIFA Congress on December 11, 2024, amid a combined vote process that approved both bids without separate deliberation. Saudi Arabia’s win marks its first time hosting the prestigious event and underscores its growing influence in global sports. Meanwhile, the 2030 World Cup will be unique in its centenary celebration, featuring matches across six countries in three continents, starting with Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Controversy Over Saudi Arabia Hosting Rights
The decision to award Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup has been met with controversy. Critics argue that it represents an attempt by the authoritarian regime to ‘sportswash’ its international reputation amid human rights concerns. Despite this, Saudi Arabia’s bid received the highest score from FIFA’s evaluation team, deemed to be of ‘medium risk’ on human rights grounds. The choice has sparked debate over the moral implications of awarding hosting rights to a country with such a contentious record on issues like free speech, women’s rights, and LGBTQ+ freedoms.
Potential Impact on Football Calendar and European Leagues
The scheduling of the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia could cause significant disruptions to the football calendar, particularly for European leagues. With temperatures in Saudi Arabia too extreme in the summer, the tournament is expected to be held in winter. This would coincide with the regular football season in Europe, posing challenges for clubs and leagues. Concerns over fixture congestion and the impact on player welfare are significant, with the Premier League and other top divisions already in legal disputes with FIFA over calendar issues. The decision to host a winter World Cup underscores the logistical challenges of maintaining both club and international football schedules.
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