Saudi Arabia to host 2034 World Cup, 2030 hosts named

Saudi Arabia has been elected host of the 2034 men’s football World Cup, world football’s governing body FIFA announced on Wednesday.

This is coming amid criticism from human rights groups and concerns that the decision by the congress of ruling body FIFA could mean another tournament in the northern hemisphere winter.

At an extraordinary virtual congress, and in the absence of rival bidders, the 211 FIFA members confirmed via one acclamation that Morocco, Portugal and Spain will co-host the 2030 World Cup.

That event will start with three matches in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay to celebrate a century since the first World Cup 1930 in Uruguay.

Also Read:

• Fernandes scores late as Manchester United beat Rangers
• Unilorin appoints Oloyede, two others as Emeritus Professors
• Tariff hike: We’re not in support of NLC’s proposed protest – NATCOMS
• $910m needed for humanitarian efforts in North East – UN
• Former FCT Minister Jeremiah Useni dies at 82

All countries presented videos before the vote to showcase their bids, with Portugal great Luis Figo starring in a humorous film for the joint 2030 bid.

Two 13-year-old youth representatives starting the Saudi presentation, and the nation pledged to deliver “a next generation World Cup for a new generation of fans.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino spoke “a historic moment” and added: “Let’s unite the world with football and through football.”