FIFA Faces Criticism Over 2034 World Cup Awarded to Saudi Arabia

The decision to hold the tournament in Saudi Arabia has reignited debates about human rights, sportswashing, and FIFA's priorities.

Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the host of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, with no competing bids for the tournament.
Critics highlight Saudi Arabia's poor human rights record, including restrictions on free speech, criminalization of homosexuality, and frequent use of the death penalty.
The decision has been labeled as another example of 'sportswashing,' where controversial regimes use major events to improve their global image.
FIFA's selection process and alignment with authoritarian regimes have drawn backlash, though the organization defends the choice as part of its global outreach.
Fan protests and calls for boycotts suggest growing frustration, but FIFA's financial focus on sponsorships and viewership remains unchanged.