Following FIFA’s confirmation on Wednesday, Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 men’s soccer World Cup. The 2030 World Cup will occur in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with special matches in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to commemorate the tournament’s centenary. FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced these decisions at a virtual extraordinary Congress.
Infantino expressed enthusiasm about the 2030 World Cup, stating, “We are bringing football to more countries and enhancing opportunities without diluting quality.”
The 2030 World Cup will span three continents and six nations, celebrating the centenary of the first World Cup in Uruguay in 1930. Portugal, Paraguay, and Morocco will host for the first time, joining past hosts Uruguay, Argentina, and Spain.
Saudi Arabia, set to host the 2034 tournament, will be the second Middle Eastern country to do so after Qatar in 2022. 2023 FIFA selected the Asia or Oceania region for the 2034 event, with the Asian Football Confederation supporting Saudi Arabia’s bid. Saudi Arabia is already a venue for significant events such as the Formula One Grand Prix, heavyweight boxing, the LIV golf circuit, and the WTA Finals tennis.
Despite having only two stadiums that accommodate 40,000 spectators—14 are required—Saudi Arabia won the hosting rights for the 2034 World Cup.
Addressing the challenges, the extreme summer heat might necessitate rescheduling the tournament later in the year, similar to Qatar in 2022. Moreover, the timing of Ramadan in December of that year presents an additional complication.
