The World Cup is a great affair for any nation to host. Apart from the revenue and attraction it creates for the nations organizing it, it also brings an opportunity to be seen on the world stage as a great nation. Recently, Qatar proved to be a great host of the 2022 edition, which saw Lionel Messi and Argentina be crowned the champions.
It brought great coverage to the tiny Arab nation, and their tourism and other industries have boomed. Other nations are scrambling to host the next editions, as everyone wants to get a taste of the World Cup and it’s benefits, including Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia to host 2034 World Cup
Recently, the 2030 edition of the World Cup was awarded to Spain, Portugal, Morocco along with Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. This left Saudi Arabia, which were very interested to hosting the World Cup, with no choice but to bid again for 2034.
FIFA had already put restrictions on the bidding process to only a member state from Asia or Oceania to keep the versatility of the World Cup. This is as 2026 would have countries from Europe, Africa and South America hosting it. But Australia who were the only other serious contenders for the bid dropped out.
The Australian soccer federation said, “Having taken all factors into consideration, we have reached the conclusion not to do so for the 2034 competition.”
The only other bid that was submitted was that of Saudi Arabia, with the deadline for bids already having been closed. The host will be confirmed later in 2024, during a FIFA Congress with 211 member states voting on it.
The Arab country has been preparing in recent times to improve its global image through sport. Already, the Saudi Pro League has seen major investment, with top teams bringing in top European players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema among many others. This is to bring global attention to themselves, to strengthen their position for the World Cup bid.
Already, their national team has shown promise, winning their opening match against Argentina and Lionel Messi 2-1 in the last edition. Argentina would later go to win the tournament, showing the Saudis are building a serious team.
Possibility of another winter World Cup
The Qatar World Cup in 2022 was unique in that it was held during the winter, instead of the traditional summer time. It was because the Arab country was too hot and would have resulted in difficulty for players to perform. In winter, temperatures drop significantly there and create a good environment for players.
The Saudi Arabia World Cup bid is also most possible to be held in the winter. As the country is in a similar geographical position to Qatar, it would be better to hold it in the winter to allow proper environment for teams.
Many fans didn’t have complaints with the winter World Cup concept and many even preferred it. The Saudi bid therefore could take place in the winter, which would be logical and unique.
Which country should be hosting the 2034 World Cup? Do let us know your opinions in the comments.
