FIFA officially designated Saudi Arabia as the host for the 2034 Football World Cup, after a 15-month candidacy process in which it was the only applicant. The ratification was approved by over 200 federations during an online meeting led by the organization’s president, Gianni Infantino. 

Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom has invested billions in global sports in recent years.

Its candidacy was strengthened after FIFA decided to hold the 2030 World Cup across three continents, leaving only Asia and Oceania eligible for 2034, with less than four weeks to submit bids. Only Saudi Arabia met the deadline. 

Announcement drew criticism as well. Human rights groups warned about potential migrant worker deaths and questioned FIFA’s approval without public guarantees for human rights protections. Saudi authorities, however, argue the World Cup will accelerate social change and expand freedoms, particularly for women.

Kingdom plans to invest tens of billions as part of its Vision 2030 plan to modernize society and the economy.

The Public Investment Fund, holding $900 billion under the prince’s supervision, finances the construction and renovation of 15 stadiums in five cities, including eight in the capital, and urban projects, such as 16 planned international airports.

King Salman Stadium will be the largest, accommodating 92,000 spectators with VIP spaces, while one stadium will rise 350 meters high in the futuristic city of Neom.

The story behind the appointment

Since 2017, Infantino has maintained close ties with Crown Prince Bin Salman, aligning the organization’s interests with Saudi funding.

Investments in international football intensified with the acquisition of stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, Karim Benzema, and Sadio Mané by Saudi clubs, injecting hundreds of millions into European football. 

This influence will be key in scheduling the 2034 World Cup, considering the November-December window used in Qatar 2022 coincides with Ramadan that year.

January 2034 appears as the most viable option, avoiding conflict with the Winter Olympics starting February 10, and aligning with existing agreements between Saudi Arabia and the International Olympic Committee for Esports Games. 

With this decision, Saudi Arabia reinforces its ambition to become a major player in global football and large-scale sporting events, while FIFA and Infantino face scrutiny over ethics, human rights, and economic influence in host selection.