Saudi Arabia Confirmed as Host of FIFA World Cup 2034

In a historic announcement, FIFA has officially named Saudi Arabia as the host of the FIFA World Cup 2034. The decision, made during the Extraordinary FIFA Congress meeting, marks a new milestone for the kingdom, making it the second Middle Eastern nation to host the prestigious tournament, following Qatar in 2022.

The tournament will feature an expanded format, with 48 teams competing in a single host country for the first time. Matches will take place across 15 state-of-the-art stadiums in five dynamic cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and Neom. Riyadh’s forthcoming King Salman Stadium, set to hold 92,000 spectators, is expected to host the opening and final matches.

Saudi Arabia’s bid, unopposed and confirmed by acclamation, underscores the kingdom’s growing role on the global sporting stage. Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sports, expressed immense pride in the decision: “We intend to deliver an extraordinary World Cup that welcomes the world to our kingdom.”

The announcement comes alongside FIFA’s confirmation of Morocco, Spain, and Portugal as co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup, which will commemorate the tournament’s centenary with celebratory matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.

The 2034 FIFA World Cup promises to showcase Saudi Arabia’s vision and hospitality, further solidifying the nation as a hub for international sports and cultural exchange.

Source: Aljazeera
Cover image source: FIFA