Saudi Arabia officially named 2034 FIFA World Cup host. Photo: Internet Source

Part of a Bigger ‘Vision’

The 2034 FIFA World Cup is arguably the crown jewel of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious plans under de-facto ruler Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) to transform the country into a regional and global sports and entertainment hub.

These efforts are part of a broader strategy of leveraging opportunities and countering threats to MBS’s rule. Saudi Arabia aims to reduce its economic dependence on oil while also deploying sports and entertainment to counter movements pushing for basic political rights.

By investing in sports and entertainment, MBS seeks to offer Saudi Arabia’s young population — 70 percent of whom are under 35 — outlets that may deter dissent and opposition to his rule.

A Controversial Decision

The decision, like the one to give neighboring Qatar hosting rights for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, is controversial. Critics accuse Saudi Arabia of “sportswashing,” using high-profile events to deflect attention from its poor human rights record.

FIFA officials, critics say, paved the way for Saudi Arabia’s unopposed bid for the 2034 Cup. It made an unusual decision to split the 2030 World Cup among Africa, Europe, and South America, marking the tournament’s centennial, clearing the path for the 2034 tournament to be hosted by a country from Asia or Oceania. Australia withdrew its bid, leaving Saudi Arabia stood unopposed.

Curiously, a FIFA evaluation report prepared last month deemed Saudi Arabia a “medium” human rights risk.

Saudi Arabia’s Big Bet on Sports

Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia has made massive investments in sports, including:

• Saudi Pro League: Signing global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar to lucrative contracts that made headlines worldwide.
• Overseas Club Ownership: The Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund Public Investment Fund (PIF) acquired a controlling stake in Newcastle United.
• Combat Sports: The kingdom hosts major boxing bouts and MMA events.
• Golf: PIF successfully waged a major coup with the creation of LIV Golf, a competitor to the PGA Tour. LIV Golf and the PGA Tour are now in talks over a potential merger.

The FIFA World Cup, however, is the crown jewel in Saudi Arabia’s efforts — a global stage signaling the country’s arrival as a major player in international sports.

Saudi Arabia plans to build 11 state-of-the-art stadiums, with most located in the capital, Riyadh. One marquee venue is planned for Neom, the troubled, futuristic city being constructed as part of the kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative.