Saudi Arabia is set to be officially announced as the host of the men's soccer 2034 World Cup by FIFA on Wednesday. This decision marks a significant achievement for the oil-rich kingdom, attributed to substantial investments in global sports spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The bid process, spanning 15 months, was largely conducted behind closed doors, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino playing a pivotal role in steering the bid towards Saudi Arabia, which emerged as the sole candidate. Despite concerns raised by human rights groups regarding the potential risks faced by migrant workers, both FIFA and Saudi officials assert that hosting the 2034 tournament could catalyze positive changes, including advancements in women's rights and freedoms.
Last year, FIFA approved a joint hosting proposal for the 2030 World Cup led by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, paving the way for Saudi Arabia's unopposed bid for the 2034 edition. The decision is expected to receive resounding approval from over 200 FIFA member federations during an online meeting hosted by Infantino from Zurich.
The upcoming decade will witness heightened scrutiny of Saudi labor laws and the treatment of workers, predominantly hailing from South Asia, who will be involved in the construction and renovation of 15 stadiums, along with associated infrastructure such as hotels and transport networks. Notably, plans include the construction of a stadium 350 meters above ground in Neom, a futuristic city yet to materialize, and another stadium perched atop a 200-meter cliff near Riyadh.
Despite criticisms of Saudi Arabia's human rights record, FIFA's acceptance of limited scrutiny has drawn backlash from rights groups and activists, who caution against repeating the mistakes made in Qatar's preparations for the 2022 World Cup. The kingdom's substantial financial commitment to World Cup-related projects aligns with the Vision 2030 initiative, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at modernizing Saudi society and economy through investments in sports.
The close rapport between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Infantino has facilitated Saudi Arabia's smooth progression towards securing the hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup, with minimal opposition from soccer officials, albeit some dissent from female international players. The kingdom's significant financial contributions to international soccer are poised to increase, with FIFA introducing a new top-tier sponsor category for state oil firm Aramco and Saudi funding earmarked for the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States.
Furthermore, Saudi influence in global soccer is evidenced by partnerships with various entities, including CONCACAF, and the acquisition of high-profile players by Saudi-owned clubs, injecting substantial funds into European soccer. This influence may play a crucial role in determining the scheduling of the 2034 World Cup, with discussions revolving around potential dates, including January 2034, to avoid conflicts with other major sporting events.
Overall, Saudi Arabia's successful bid to host the 2034 World Cup underscores the kingdom's growing prominence in the realm of international sports, driven by significant investments and strategic partnerships.
