FIFA Awards 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia Despite 'Sportswashing' Criticism

Dec 12, 2024, 04:40 AM

FIFA has officially confirmed that Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, marking the first time the tournament will be held in the Middle Eastern nation. The decision, made during an extraordinary FIFA Congress, has sparked controversy and criticism from human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, which condemn Saudi Arabia's human rights record and accuse FIFA of enabling 'sportswashing.' Despite the backlash, Saudi officials and supporters have celebrated the announcement, with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulating Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo expressed optimism, stating that the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia will be 'the best World Cup ever.'