FIFA Congress Poised to Announce Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup Host
The FIFA Congress is set to confirm Saudi Arabia as the host nation for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, marking the tournament's second return to the Middle East.
In a landmark decision, the FIFA Congress is expected to officially announce Saudi Arabia as the host country for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. This selection signifies the tournament's second occasion in the Middle East, following Qatar's hosting in 2022.
The virtual assembly, convening representatives from FIFA's 211 member associations, will also confirm the joint bid of Morocco, Spain, and Portugal for the 2030 World Cup. The 2030 edition will commemorate the centenary of the inaugural World Cup held in Uruguay in 1930, with initial matches slated to take place in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
Saudi Arabia's journey to secure the 2034 hosting rights commenced in October 2023, when the nation declared its intention to bid. By November 2024, FIFA's evaluation report awarded the Saudi bid a score of 4.2 out of 5, the highest in the tournament's history. The assessment highlighted the ambitious stadium projects, including the proposed Mohammed bin Salman Stadium in the Qiddiya development and the NEOM Stadium.
Since announcing its bid, Saudi Arabia has garnered support from over 100 countries and various continental federations, reflecting its growing prominence in hosting major international sporting events. The nation's commitment to sports aligns with its broader vision of economic and social transformation under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The official confirmation of Saudi Arabia as the 2034 World Cup host is anticipated to usher in a new era for football in the region, showcasing the Middle East's capacity to stage world-class sporting events.