Bid for FIFA World Cup Submitted by Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has officially submitted its bid for the rights to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) President Yasser Al Misehal attended an official designation at a FIFA ceremony in Paris, France. Minister of Sport, Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee President Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal was also present. Two young football players from SAFF-affiliated regional training centers accompanied them.

FIFA World Cup 2034: A bid for the future

Prince Abdulaziz remarked, “I extend my sincerest gratitude to our visionary leadership that has enabled us to reach this milestone in the history of Saudi sports.”

“I also express my profound thanks to the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for his unwavering support for the development of the sports sector,” he added, referring to the support of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

In addition, Prince Abdulaziz noted that hosting the FIFA World Cup 2034 is a “bid for the future.” He also emphasized that Saudi Arabia aims to host “the most important event in the world of football.” By doing so, the kingdom would be able to cement its influence on the global sports stage.

The presence of the two children symbolizes the youth’s contribution to Saudi Arabia. It also represents how they are their largest population segment.

“With their passion and outstanding talent in various fields, including football, our youth are the key to achieving the Kingdom’s future ambitions.”

“Their involvement sends a powerful message, reflecting the dreams and aspirations of our youth to participate in a FIFA World Cup on our home soil, to help organize the tournament, or to support the Kingdom’s efforts in welcoming the world.”

An enduring legacy

Meanwhile, SAFF President Yasser Al Misehal spoke about how the bid displays Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing spotrs and the quality of life for their people.

“Our country’s love of football is rooted in history, and we want to showcase to FIFA how we will harness this enthusiasm not just in 2034 – but for generations to come. We want to create an enduring legacy to help push Saudi Arabia’s transformation to new heights.”

Saudi Arabia, through SAFF, first expressed on October 4, 2023, its interest in hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Following this, the kingdom officially announced its bid campaign.

Since 2015, the kingdom has witnessed a 300 percent growth in physical activity. Since 2021, meanwhile, male and female football players have increased to 58 and 86 percent respectively.

The FIFA World Cup 2034 hosting initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming a leading global sports hub. In July 2024, it revealed the plan and design for the King Salman Stadium in Riyadh. The venue features a 92,000-seat capacity, with 360,000 square meters dedicated to sports facilities.

Photo: X/Life in Saudi Arabia