Roger Hampel
Photo Credit: SAFF
The FIFA Congress has officially confirmed Saudi Arabia as the host nation for the FIFA World Cup 2034™. The announcement, made during a virtual FIFA Extraordinary Congress, solidifies Saudi Arabia’s position as a rising hub for global football events. This will mark the second time a Middle Eastern nation hosts the prestigious tournament, following Qatar’s successful staging of the event in 2022.
A Historic First: 48 Teams in a Single Host Country
The 2034 World Cup will be a landmark edition, as it will feature 48 teams competing in a single host country for the first time. Saudi Arabia’s vast resources and ambitious development plans were instrumental in securing the hosting rights. Matches will be played across 15 state-of-the-art stadiums located in five cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and the futuristic city of Neom.
As the sole bidder for the tournament, Saudi Arabia's selection was confirmed by acclamation, reflecting global confidence in its ability to deliver an exceptional event.
NEOM Stadium | Photo Credit: NEOM
Preparing for the Global Stage
In preparation for 2034, Saudi Arabia will also host the AFC Asian Cup in 2027, providing a vital testing ground for infrastructure, security, and fan engagement strategies. According to Shaikh Salman, President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), this event will serve as a "stepping stone" for Saudi Arabia’s World Cup preparations.
“The AFC Asian Cup™ in 2027 will allow Saudi Arabia to gain invaluable experience and improve its operational capabilities,” said Shaikh Salman. “The lessons learned will be crucial as the Kingdom gears up for the even greater challenge of hosting the FIFA World Cup.”
Showcasing Saudi Arabia to the World
Hosting the World Cup offers Saudi Arabia a unique opportunity to highlight its rich cultural heritage, renowned hospitality, and ambitious developmental projects. The event aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom's blueprint for economic diversification and global engagement. From Riyadh’s bustling metropolis to Neom’s innovative smart city, each host city is expected to leave a lasting impression on football fans worldwide.
A Milestone for Asian Football Saudi Arabia FIFA World Cup 2034
The announcement also marks a significant milestone for Asian football. Shaikh Salman emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the World Cup underscores Asia’s growing influence in global football. “This historic achievement marks a new chapter for Asian football,” he said. “With Saudi Arabia hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034, we are confident that Asia will continue to play a leading role on the global stage.”
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