Saudi Arabia win bid to host FIFA World Cup 2034, record highest bidding ratings

After achieving the historic bidding ratings on Saturday, Saudi Arabia has been granted permission to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Saudi Arabia defeated a joint bid from the United States, Canada, and Mexico to host the World Cup solely in the winter season of 2034.

A record-breaking bidding rating of 419.8 out of 500 was recorded by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation. On December 11, FIFA is anticipated to formally confirm Saudi Arabia as World Cup hosts. 

“I extend my deepest gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince for their support and empowerment, which played a pivotal role in achieving this outstanding result,” Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, said.

"Saudi Arabia is a footballing nation with a young population that truly love the game. Young people are looking for a bright future. This score by FIFA simply reflects our commitment to grow the game, our rapid transformation and our desire to host the best possible tournament for the entire world to enjoy.

"It is the result of our extensive efforts to present an exceptional bid and a testament to the collaboration between multiple entities across the Kingdom, driven by Vision 2030, which has enabled all sectors to unite behind a bid that represents the aspirations of the Kingdom’s leadership and the ambitions of the Saudi people," he further added.

Saudi Arabia made headlines at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, which was hosted in Qatar, after defeating eventual champion Argentina 1-2 in the group stages. The United States of America, Canada, and Mexico will host the 2026 World Cup. 

In a historic move, Portugal, Spain, and Morocco will host the 2030 FIFA World Cup—the first time three nations from two continents will do so.

Cover Credits - FIFA Official