FIFA to confirm Morocco-Spain-Portugal for 2030 and Saudi Arabia for 2034 World Cups

FIFA is set to announce the hosts for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups on Wednesday. The joint bid by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal will secure the 2030 tournament, while Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 edition. Both decisions, to be voted on during a virtual FIFA Congress, face no opposition due to the lack of rival bids.

The 2030 World Cup coincides with the centenary of the inaugural tournament held in Uruguay. To honor this milestone, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will each host a game, marking an unprecedented arrangement spanning three continental confederations. Morocco, Spain, and Portugal emerged as the sole contenders for 2030 after other bids, including those from the UK and Ireland, South Korea, and a South American coalition, withdrew. Morocco’s inclusion followed its alliance with Spain and Portugal, while South America stepped aside in exchange for hosting rights to the three centenary matches.

Morocco’s hosting will be historic, making it the second African nation to host the event after South Africa in 2010. The country plans to build the Hassan II Stadium, set to be the world’s largest with a 115,000 capacity. Spain, with 11 proposed stadiums, is likely to be the tournament’s centerpiece, while Portugal will contribute three venues and hopes to host a semi-final.

The 2034 World Cup returns to the Gulf region following Qatar’s 2022 event. Saudi Arabia is the sole candidate after Australia and Indonesia withdrew, benefiting from FIFA’s rotational hosting principle. However, Saudi Arabia faces logistical hurdles, including the need to expand its stadium infrastructure and address extreme summer temperatures, potentially pushing the tournament to a later date. Ramadan in December further complicates scheduling.

Human rights concerns shadow Saudi Arabia’s bid, echoing criticisms during Qatar’s 2022 World Cup. Rights groups point to mass executions, restricted freedoms, and gender inequality under the male guardianship system. Critics accuse the kingdom of “sportswashing,” leveraging events like Formula One and the WTA Finals to improve its global image despite its rights record.

While the dual announcements solidify FIFA’s global ambitions, they also reignite debates on ethical considerations surrounding mega sporting events.

MT