Saudi Arabia is rich in money and ambitions. Its crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, says his country will be the new Europe culturally in 10 years’ time. Football is an important part of his strategy. He wants to compete with the Champions League so is investing heavily in players who have become stars in Europe. Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar and Karim Benzema now play for absurd salaries in Saudi Arabia. A few others who have passed the age of 30 will undoubtedly follow them.
It seems to be a done deal that the 2034 men’s World Cup will be held in Saudi Arabia. Although the process is ongoing, Gianni Infantino has practically announced the decision on his Instagram account. Fifa’s new top sponsor, Aramco, is owned by the Saudi state, which is probably another indication that the organisation seems to pay particular attention to money when awarding tournaments. You have to be able to afford such a project; Qatar is said to have spent more than $200bn (£159bn) on the 2022 World Cup. The tournament will hardly cost less in 11 years’ time, especially as 48 instead of 32 countries will be taking part.
