RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has achieved an unprecedented perfect score of 419.8 out of 500 in its bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, marking the highest rating ever given by FIFA for a hosting bid. The announcement comes just weeks before the official host selection, following an extensive inspection visit by FIFA officials in October that thoroughly examined the Kingdom’s tournament infrastructure and capabilities.
The bid, submitted under the slogan “Growing. Together”, represents an ambitious plan to host the world’s first 48-team FIFA World Cup in a single country. Saudi Arabia’s proposal includes matches across 15 stadiums in five primary host cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Abha, and NEOM, with an additional 10 host locations planned nationwide.
Key officials celebrated the milestone as more than just a sporting achievement. “This score reflects our commitment to grow the game and our rapid transformation,” said Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee. The bid is deeply intertwined with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a strategic initiative aimed at diversifying the nation’s economy and global reputation.
Strategically, the World Cup bid represents a significant diplomatic and cultural opportunity. It aligns with Saudi Arabia’s recent efforts to become a global sports destination, following high-profile events like the FIFA Club World Cup and the Formula 1 Grand Prix.
The proposed tournament promises not just a sporting event, but a comprehensive experience showcasing Saudi Arabia’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and modern infrastructure. With a focus on sustainability through the Saudi Green Initiative, the bid aims to deliver an environmentally conscious and technologically advanced World Cup.
FIFA’s unprecedented high rating suggests Saudi Arabia has set a new standard for World Cup hosting bids, potentially reshaping future tournament selection processes.
The final decision will be made at the FIFA Congress on December 11, where the hosting rights for both the 2030 and 2034 World Cups will be officially awarded.