The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has officially announced Saudi Arabia as the host nation for the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The decision was made during an Extraordinary FIFA Congress meeting held on Wednesday, December 11, with representatives from over 200 member federations participating remotely.
Saudi Arabia’s bid was unopposed and received unanimous applause, signaling widespread support for the decision. FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the choice as a clear and decisive one.
“The vote of the congress is loud and clear,” Infantino said, asking representatives to demonstrate their support with visible applause during the virtual meeting.
READ ALSO: Super Eagles Drop In FIFA Rankings
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed the announcement, expressing confidence in Saudi Arabia’s ability to deliver a memorable tournament.
“We look forward to hosting an exceptional and unprecedented edition of the FIFA World Cup by harnessing our strengths and capabilities to bring joy to football fans around the world,” he said in a statement.
During the same meeting, FIFA also confirmed Morocco, Spain, and Portugal as co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup.
The tournament will feature an unprecedented six-nation project, with Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay each hosting one match to mark the centenary of the first World Cup, held in Uruguay in 1930.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, setting the stage for a series of collaborative hosting arrangements.
READ ALSO: Slash Fuel Price To ₦300 Before Christmas, Bode George Tells Tinubu
The decision to award Saudi Arabia the 2034 tournament reflects FIFA’s ongoing efforts to expand the geographical footprint of football and engage new audiences worldwide.
Saudi Arabia’s selection as host further cements the region’s growing influence in global football, following Qatar’s successful hosting of the 2022 World Cup.
The kingdom has invested heavily in football infrastructure, including signing major players to its domestic league and hosting international tournaments, showcasing its commitment to the sport on a global stage.
With preparations already underway, FIFA and Saudi Arabia have promised to deliver a spectacular event that will resonate with football fans worldwide.