The 2034 World Cup will take place in Saudi Arabia, marking a major new milestone for football on the Asian continent. This will be the third time that Asia will host the event, after Japan-Korea in 2002 and Qatar in 2022. Like the Qatari edition, this one will be played in winter in order to adapt to climatic conditions.
A new World Cup for Asia
With modern infrastructure and a colossal budget, the Kingdom promises to organize “the most beautiful World Cup in history”, according to its officials. This announcement reinforces the Saudi strategy of investing massively in sport to develop its international influence.
The calendar for future World Cups is now complete: in 2026, the tournament will take place for the first time in three North American countries (United States, Mexico, Canada), while the 2030 edition will be shared between Europe (Portugal, Spain), Africa (Morocco) and South America (Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay).
A first for Saudi Arabia
By choosing Saudi Arabia, FIFA is continuing its policy of internationalization and opening up to new regions. This choice nevertheless gives rise to debates on climate issues and human rights, as was the case for Qatar in 2022.
With this announcement, world football is preparing to experience a decade rich in firsts and diversity. Expectations for 2034 are enormous, and Saudi Arabia will face the challenge of combining innovation and tradition.
