Saudi Arabia is set to host the World Cup for the first time. On 11 December, football’s world governing body FIFA announced its name as the host of the 2034 World Cup. However, human rights groups objected to the Saudi bid because it would increase the risk for migrant workers who will be brought in to build stadiums, airports, roads, and hotels. Last October, FIFA announced that the event hosts for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups would be selected at the same time.
Celebrations began nationwide in Saudi Arabia a few days before the vote. Hosting the tournament in Saudi Arabia will delight millions of young Saudis. The Saudi Arabian national team has captured the hearts of young Saudis since it first won the competition, defeating Argentina. Many young Saudis have traveled to watch their teams play in the Qatar World Cup.
However, the biggest fear in this tournament is the issue of human rights risks. FIFA faces criticism for hosting the World Cup in Saudi Arabia over human rights concerns. Earlier, there was criticism of the human rights situation in Qatar, the host of the 2022 World Cup.
Within minutes of Saudi Arabia being announced as the World Cup host, Prince Mohammed said they were determined to spread a “message of love and peace” throughout the tournament. However, they lack accountability in protecting human rights. Because the migrant workers building the stadium and other sites for that event are at great risk. Human rights groups have taken a stand against Saudi Arabia on this issue.
Hosting the World Cup is part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plan to turn its country into a tourism hub. That’s why they’ve been spending a lot of money on sports planning for the past few years.