Saudi Arabia has been controversially confirmed to host the 2034 World Cup. The news came after the 2030 organizers were announced.
Why is Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the World Cup controversial?
The 2022 World Cup in Qatar has led to the suspension of leagues around the world. Similar conditions are expected due to extreme weather conditions in Saudi Arabia, suggesting fans should prepare for another World Cup in November and December.
The situation also poses challenges for players, as a lengthy break in the domestic season could throw off their rhythm. Football players will face a congested schedule upon returning from a demanding international tournament, which could lead to a host of injuries.
Human rights activists and LGBTQ+ organizations have expressed concern over the decision to award Saudi Arabia the host country for the 2034 World Cup.
Same-sex relations are criminalized in Saudi Arabia and can result in severe penalties, including the death penalty, lengthy prison terms, flogging, fines, and forced deportation. There are also accusations of a sports reshuffle, with Saudi Arabia allegedly using sport to divert attention from its environmentally damaging oil-dependent economy.
FIFA’s decision prompted warnings from several human rights groups about ongoing problems in the Gulf state, such as mistreatment of migrant workers, restrictions on free speech and the rights of minority groups.
The Football Association has backed the decision to award the World Cup to Saudi Arabia despite significant charitable donations to the LGBTQ+ community.
Plans for the 2034 World Cup have sparked a backlash from human rights advocates who say Saudi law fails to protect migrant workers.
The tournament will require the construction of eight new stadiums, bringing the total number of venues to 15, as well as an additional 175,000 hotel rooms, which will rely heavily on migrant workers.
FIFA is about to award Saudi Arabia the right to host the 2034 World Cup🇸🇦
But it could mean many migrant workers will die during the construction of eleven new stadiums and various infrastructure projects planned by the Kingdom. pic.twitter.com/LtXuDazEhy
— Deutsche Welle Sports (@dw_sports) December 11, 2024
A similar situation occurred at the World Cup in Qatar, where an estimated 6,500 people lost their lives due to poor protection of migrant workers.
Who will host the 2030 World Cup?
The 2030 World Cup, similar to the 2026 World Cup, will be held in three countries: Spain, Portugal and Morocco. In addition, Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina will each host an opening match to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Uruguay hosting the first World Cup and winning by the host nation.
The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The format has sparked some debate over player welfare and environmental concerns due to the extensive travel required for players.
