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FIFA Weighs Moving Saudi 2034 World Cup to Winter or Early 2035

Infantino says FIFA is reviewing the global calendar to reconcile climate risks with the Ramadan schedule.

Overview

  • FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the organization must look at and optimize the calendar and consider competition‑format changes, without giving dates.
  • Reporting from The Athletic indicates the tournament could be pushed to early 2035, though FIFA has not announced any decision.
  • Ramadan falls in November and December 2034 in Saudi Arabia, which is being considered in discussions about the timing.
  • Infantino cited potential heat in June and July as a reason to rethink traditional summer scheduling, noting the winter move for Qatar 2022 as precedent.
  • Any alteration would require coordination with clubs, confederations, broadcasters and player groups, while the 2026 World Cup remains scheduled for June 11 to July 19.