In a strategic move to position itself as a global sports and tourism hub, Saudi Arabia officially launched its bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup on Friday. Under the slogan “Growing. Together,” the campaign is backed by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), which unveiled its bid logo, website, and a captivating short film celebrating the passion, spirit, and diversity of football in the country.
The Road to 2034: Unprecedented Progress and Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia, having successfully hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, aims to become the second Gulf country to showcase the prestigious tournament. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 reform agenda has played a pivotal role in positioning Saudi Arabia as a key player in international sports. The kingdom’s significant investments in various sports initiatives, including the establishment of the LIV golf tour and acquiring English Premier League club Newcastle United, reflect its commitment to becoming a prominent sports destination.
FIFA World Cup-Strategic Partnerships and Global Reach
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) recently announced a strategic partnership with the ATP, demonstrating its commitment to expanding its presence in global sports. This move follows PIF’s investments in major sports since 2021, including setting up the LIV golf tour and purchasing top-tier football clubs. Notably, the acquisition of global football stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar has elevated the kingdom’s profile in the international sports arena.
Sports Diplomacy or “Sportswashing”?
The substantial investments in sports have led to accusations of “sportswashing” – a term used to describe attempts to divert attention from contentious issues, such as human rights concerns, through sports initiatives. The Saudi government vehemently denies allegations of human rights abuses, emphasizing the protection of national security through its laws. The bid for the 2034 World Cup is seen as an opportunity to showcase the positive aspects of Saudi Arabia’s progress, particularly in football.
Yasser Al Misehal’s Vision: Inviting the World to Saudi Arabia
Yasser Al Misehal, President of SAFF, emphasizes the bid as an open invitation for the world to witness Saudi Arabia’s unprecedented progress in both men’s and women’s football. The bid aligns with the kingdom’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and showcasing the advancements made in its football landscape. Al Misehal highlights the importance of sharing Saudi Arabia’s football story with the world, positioning the bid as an exciting journey for both the nation and the global football community.
Global Support and Rivalries: The Path to 2034
Initially considering a joint bid for the 2030 World Cup alongside Egypt and Greece, Saudi Arabia changed course, leaving the door open for a tri-continental bid of Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. The bid faced initial competition from Australia, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian nations. However, strategic alliances and regional support, including Indonesia’s endorsement in October, have strengthened Saudi Arabia’s bid.
The Next Steps: Submitting the Bid and FIFA’s Decision
With the official bid launched in October and support secured from key nations, the next crucial step is the submission of full bid documents to FIFA in July. The final decision on the hosts for both the 2030 and 2034 World Cups is expected to be confirmed at a FIFA Congress later in the year. As Saudi Arabia prepares to showcase its capabilities on the global stage, the bid signifies a pivotal moment in the nation’s sporting history.
Conclusion
Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup is more than a pursuit of hosting rights; it symbolizes the kingdom’s ambition to be recognized as a sports powerhouse. The campaign, rooted in Vision 2030 and propelled by significant investments, is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering international sportsmanship and inclusivity. As the bid progresses, the world awaits the decision that could shape the future of football in the Gulf region and beyond.
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