Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Saudi Arabia has expressed its readiness to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, proposing an expanded 64-team format, pending FIFA's approval. Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal stated that the kingdom would support and be capable of organizing the tournament if FIFA deems it beneficial.

 The tournament is set to be held across five cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and NEOM. Saudi Arabia plans to construct or revamp 15 stadiums by 2032, relying on migrant labor while asserting strong safety protocols. The King Salman Stadium in Riyadh, with a capacity of 92,000, is expected to host the opening and final matches.

The tournament will be alcohol-free, in line with national laws, though officials do not anticipate this will affect the fan experience. Saudi Arabia has successfully hosted over 100 international sporting events without alcohol, reflecting positive attendee feedback.

The selection of Saudi Arabia to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup has sparked outrage, seen as yet another example of FIFA's disregard for democratic and fair processes. Critics argue that significant football nations like Germany, England, Italy, France, Spain, Brazil, and the United States could have effectively resisted the decision but failed to do so.

With the official confirmation from FIFA and the proposed expansion to 64 teams, Saudi Arabia is poised to host a historic World Cup. The kingdom's commitment to infrastructure development and its efforts to align with FIFA's vision for the tournament underscore its readiness to undertake this monumental event.