Saudi Arabia is confirmed as the host nation for the 2034 FIFA Men's World Cup, while Spain, Portugal and Morocco will jointly host the 2030 tournament.
To commemorate 100 years of the World Cup, matches in the 2030 edition will also take place in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, marking the centenary celebrations of the tournament's inception in 1930.
The decision was finalized through acclamation votes during a virtual meeting attended by all 211 FIFA member nations.
Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom says that votes were effectively cast prior to the session, with nations clapping in approval via video links.
Meanwhile, the Swiss Football Association supported Saudi Arabia’s bid but says there is a need for human rights monitoring by FIFA and the International Labour Organisation.
Denmark’s Football Union expressed criticism of the bidding process, calling for transparency and improvements in human rights.
Chairman Jesper Moller noted the limited options in the process but supported the overall package of bids for both tournaments. The 2030 World Cup will showcase an unprecedented six-nation hosting collaboration, while Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 tournament highlights FIFA’s growing focus on the Middle East.
[Source: BBC Sports]
