DFB Faces Criticism for Backing Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup Bid

The German Football Association cites strategic reasons for its support, despite widespread concerns over human rights violations in Saudi Arabia.

The DFB has confirmed its unanimous decision to support Saudi Arabia's bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, calling opposition to the bid symbolic and ineffective.
The decision aligns with FIFA’s en bloc voting process, which ties the 2034 World Cup to the 2030 tournament hosted by Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and parts of South America.
DFB President Bernd Neuendorf emphasized the need to remain engaged with Saudi Arabia to influence improvements in human rights and sustainability practices.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from fan groups and human rights organizations, who accuse FIFA and the DFB of prioritizing profit over ethical concerns.
Saudi Arabia's human rights record, including restrictions on freedoms and labor abuses, has been highlighted as a major issue by groups such as Human Rights Watch.