Saudi Arabia was confirmed Wednesday as the host for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, aligning with its broader strategy to invest in sports. The football governing body also confirmed Morocco as the 2030 FIFA World Cup co-host with Spain and Portugal, an event which will include special opening matches in South American nations Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.
Saudi Arabia’s bid
Saudi Arabia’s selection to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup concludes a 15-month bid process. It was the sole bidder for the tournament, allowing FIFA to confirm its selection by acclamation. FIFA President Gianni Infantino made the announcement in an online meeting hosted in Zurich.
Saudi Arabia announced its intention to bid shortly after FIFA outlined the criteria for the 2034 edition, including a stipulation favoring countries in the Asia and Oceania regions.
Historic World Cup in Morocco
The Morocco-Spain-Portugal 2030 World Cup bid proposed 20 stadiums, including six in Morocco, surpassing the minimum requirement and offering diverse, iconic venue options.
“The tripartite bid will stand out in history. This is the first time that this universal event has been organized simultaneously in Africa, the cradle of Humanity, and on the Old Continent, Europe,” the Maghreb Arabe Press quoted President of the Royal Moroccan Football Federation, Fouzi Lekjaa, as saying.
Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will host one-off matches to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup in 1930, held in Uruguay.
Investments in sports
Through its sovereign wealth fund, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saudi Arabia has made significant investments to reshape the global sports industry. These efforts are part of its broader strategy to diversify its economy under Vision 2030 – to reduce dependence on oil revenues, and enhance its global influence.
The PIF-backed LIV Golf series has attracted top players with lucrative contracts and eventually brokered a historic merger with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour.
Saudi Arabia has hosted major boxing events, including high-profile heavyweight title fights, bringing global attention to the kingdom as a prime location for hosting elite boxing matches.
PIF, through initiatives like Savvy Gaming Group, has invested billions into esports and gaming, including acquiring stakes in major gaming companies and establishing partnerships to position Saudi Arabia as a hub for competitive gaming and digital entertainment.
In 2021, Saudi Arabia joined the Formula One calendar with the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix held in Jeddah, as part of its push to host world-class motorsport events and attract international attention.
The PIF has also acquired majority stakes in prominent football clubs like Newcastle United and invested heavily in the Saudi Pro League, signing globally recognized players to elevate the league’s status.
