Saudi Arabia Poised to Host 2034 FIFA World Cup After Uncontested Bid

The kingdom's extensive sponsorship network and influence in global sports highlight its strategy to reshape its international image through major investments.

• Saudi Arabia has secured over 900 sponsorship deals, with more than a third linked to its $925 billion Public Investment Fund, as part of its bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
• The FIFA decision, set for December 11, will likely confirm Saudi Arabia as the host without a formal vote, following a fast-tracked process that left the country as the sole candidate.
• Critics, including Play The Game and Amnesty International, have raised concerns about Saudi Arabia's human rights record and the ethical implications of its growing influence in global sports.
• FIFA's internal evaluation of Saudi Arabia's bid offered limited critical analysis, despite labor concerns tied to the construction of most of the proposed 15 stadiums.
• Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 program underpins its sports strategy, aiming to diversify the economy, modernize society, and expand its geopolitical influence through high-profile events.

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