Saudi Arabia has officially announced its intention to bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup

The Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) has formally confirmed Saudi Arabia's desire to bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034. The proposal hopes to provide a world-class event, drawing inspiration from the country's continuing social and economic development as well as its deep love of football. The proposal, which is supported by Saudi Arabia's expanding expertise in organising top-tier football tournaments, coincides with the country's aspirations to host the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, demonstrating its commitment to global sports excellence.

Reflecting on the bid, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed Bin Salman stated that Saudi Arabia's choice to compete for the 2034 FIFA World Cup demonstrates the country's success in all areas. The Kingdom is fast becoming as a premier worldwide events centre, owing to its rich cultural legacy, economic power, and people's aspiration.

Sport plays an important role in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a comprehensive reform plan that intends to contribute to economic growth and improve quality of life. The bid aims to unify disparate cultures through football by creating an unforgettable experience that would delight fans all across the world. Saudi Arabia has become a global destination for male and female athletes in football, motorsports, tennis, equestrian, esports, and golf after hosting over 50 international events since 2018.

The Green Falcons have qualified for the FIFA World Cup six times, most recently in 2022, and earned a historic victory over eventual champions Argentina in their group. As the FIFA World Cup grows to a 48-team tournament in 2026, Saudi Arabia intends to host all matches within the country, simplifying logistics, optimising scheduling, and providing distinct fan experiences across host stadiums and towns. Saudi Arabia, a youthful and dynamic nation with over 70% of its population under the age of 35, is home to one of Asia's top football competitions, the Saudi Pro League (SPL). The league, which features elite Saudi talent as well as foreign superstars, attracts fans from all over the world.

SAFF's dedication to investing in and growing football is shown in major accomplishments in young football, greater coaching resources, and significant growth in registered male and female players. With the introduction of senior and U-17 national teams, professional leagues, and a school girls league, the women's game has made significant progress.

Saudi Arabia's application to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup is a significant step forward in determining football's future, driven by the leadership's commitment to improving the country and providing new possibilities across the football ecosystem. Following FIFA's decision on Wednesday to revise the FIFA World Cup hosting mechanism, Asia will have the opportunity to host the world's premier football competition in 2034 for only the third time in its history, following the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea Republic/Japan and the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.