Anne Wong
Saudi Arabia has officially been named the host for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, following an online FIFA Congress. While this decision received applause from many, it hasn’t escaped controversy. Concerns about human rights and the implications of such a massive event in the Middle East are front and center. The announcement marked a significant step in Saudi Arabia’s ambition to lead in global sports.
With the news that Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup, questions about ‘sportswashing’ and human rights are rising among critics. While the applause at the Congress sealed the deal, the world watches closely how Saudi Arabia will address safety for all, including LGBTQ+ individuals. The FIFA announcement brings excitement but also skepticism as the nation prepares for this incredible venture.
The Unexpected Applause
The decision to host the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia was met with applause at the virtual FIFA Congress. This reaction wasn’t entirely surprising, given that Saudi Arabia was the only bidder for this event. Critics, however, argue that this easy win is part of a larger attempt to ‘sportswash’ the nation’s controversial human rights record.
Simultaneously, FIFA confirmed Morocco, Portugal, and Spain as co-hosts for the 2030 World Cup, marking a diverse range of locations for upcoming tournaments. The contentious applause highlights a mix of excitement and concern among global powers within FIFA, as the decision ushers in a new era for World Cup hosting.
A Coronation Without Competitors
Saudi Arabia’s path to hosting the 2034 World Cup seemed almost predestined. After last year’s agreement to have South America kick off the centenary 2030 finals, Saudi Arabia was left as the sole bidder for 2034. This lack of competition gave a sense of inevitability to their selection and sparked discussions about the fairness of the bidding process.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino orchestrated the confirmation by having delegates show support through applause rather than a typical vote. Although most showed support, like England’s FA representatives Mark Bullingham and Debbie Hewitt, others, such as the Norwegian federation, opted to abstain, criticizing the process as essentially “gift-wrapped” for Saudi Arabia.
Support for this decision came with assurances from Saudi delegates about creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all fans, including LGBTQ+ individuals. Whether these promises will align with the nation’s current laws remains to be seen.
A Catalyst for Change?
England’s Football Association backed Saudi Arabia’s bid, citing the potential for positive change through collaboration and inclusivity.
Spokespersons emphasized that World Cups can drive positive social shifts when done right. However, human rights groups have raised concerns, noting that Saudi Arabia, a nation known for criminalizing same-sex relationships, must address these issues openly to prove its commitment.
Amnesty International and other organizations warn that Saudi Arabia hosting the World Cup could risk lives, especially those of migrant workers involved in constructing the necessary infrastructure. The assurance that fans of all backgrounds will be safe and welcome remains a point of contention.
Critics believe the pressure is on for Saudi Arabia to genuinely work on improving its human rights situation. Yet, the alliance between FIFA and Saudi Arabia seems to grow stronger, driven by shared economic interests.
Economic and Political Ties
The selection of Saudi Arabia strengthens its ties with FIFA, furthering their economic and political connections.
In April, Aramco, Saudi Arabia’s massive oil and gas company, became a sponsor of FIFA, a deal reportedly worth $100 million annually. This news adds another layer to the relationship, raising eyebrows among critics.
There’s speculation that Saudi Arabia might also invest in DAZN, the streaming platform that recently secured exclusive global rights for FIFA’s 2025 Club World Cup. As financial connections deepen, the concerns about these partnerships continue to echo.
FIFA President Infantino expressed confidence in Saudi Arabia addressing all criticisms, but the path ahead remains under scrutiny. Collaborative efforts between Saudi Arabia and FIFA present an opportunity to bridge gaps, though transparency remains crucial.
Environmental and Logistical Hurdles
Environmental concerns are a hot topic as Saudi Arabia prepares for the 48-team World Cup. Hosting requires substantial construction, including 15 stadiums across five cities.
Saudi Arabia plans major developments, including Neom, a linear city still under construction, adding complexity to its World Cup plans.
The host nation faces challenges balancing ambitious infrastructural projects with environmental sustainability. The world will watch closely to see how these developments unfold.
A Nation Under the Spotlight
Saudi Arabia’s selection as the 2034 World Cup host puts its policies and practices under global scrutiny, especially regarding human rights.
The decision brought varied reactions, with supporters viewing it as an opportunity to showcase progress while critics demand proof of genuine change.
Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki Al Faisal, welcomes the world to an extraordinary World Cup event. However, the pressure to deliver on promises made looms large as the country prepares.
The world eagerly anticipates the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia, a decision filled with potential and scrutiny.
Whether Saudi Arabia manages to balance its grand ambitions with essential reforms remains to be seen, as global eyes remain watchful.
As the 2034 FIFA World Cup approaches, Saudi Arabia stands at a crossroads of opportunity and challenge. The world watches with curiosity and uncertainty, as the nation embarks on hosting one of the biggest sporting events on the planet.
For Saudi Arabia, this World Cup represents more than just football; it’s a chance to prove itself on a global stage, addressing human rights concerns while showcasing its ability to host an event of this magnitude.
