FIFA has formally evaluated Saudi Arabia’s unopposed bid to host the 2034 FIFA Men’s World Cup, with the Gulf nation receiving an unprecedented score of 4.2 out of 5, the highest in the governing body’s history. While FIFA’s report lauds Saudi Arabia’s potential to use the tournament as a “catalyst for reforms,” critics have slammed the decision, highlighting the kingdom’s contentious human rights record and environmental concerns.
A Platform for Reform or Greenwashing?
The bid evaluation frames the tournament as a medium human rights risk but emphasizes the opportunity for positive change under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy. FIFA’s report notes commitments to address issues such as labor rights, gender equality, and freedom of expression. However, Amnesty International and other campaign groups argue the promises lack substance and could lead to exploitation and repression.
“Without fundamental reforms, the World Cup risks being overshadowed by human rights abuses,” Amnesty International stated, describing FIFA’s report as “an astonishing whitewash” of Saudi Arabia’s record.
Environmental Concerns Amid Mega-Construction Plans
The environmental impact of the 2034 World Cup also raises questions. The Saudi proposal includes 15 stadiums across five cities, with eight new constructions. While the bid pledges mitigation efforts such as public transport for ticket holders, air travel between host cities remains a significant contributor to carbon emissions.
Critics have compared the bid’s environmental toll to the 2030 World Cup, set to be hosted across six countries on three continents. That tournament is projected to generate 3.5 million tons of CO2, a “significant negative impact” according to FIFA.
Winter World Cup Likely to Return
With summer temperatures in Saudi Arabia often exceeding 40°C, the report acknowledges scheduling complexities. A winter tournament, as seen in Qatar 2022, appears likely. FIFA noted that Saudi Arabia is “committed to determining the optimal timing” for the event.
A Bold Gamble on Sports Diplomacy
Saudi Arabia’s investment in sports has surged under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at diversifying the oil-dependent economy. The kingdom has spent an estimated £5 billion on events ranging from Formula 1 to golf and football, with critics labeling these efforts as “sportswashing.”
However, Saudi Sports Minister HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal defended the bid, saying, “This score by FIFA reflects our commitment to grow the game and host an exceptional tournament.”
Looking Ahead
The official ratification of Saudi Arabia as the 2034 host is expected during the FIFA Congress on December 11. Whether this World Cup will indeed drive meaningful reforms or become a flashpoint for controversy remains to be seen.
What is certain is that the tournament will spark intense debate about the intersection of sports, politics, and global values—just as Qatar did before it.
