FIFA Favorably Evaluates Saudi Arabia's 2034 World Cup Bid

FIFA's evaluation report has favored Saudi Arabia's bid to host the 2034 World Cup, granting it an unprecedented average score of 4.2 out of 5 despite ongoing concerns about the country's human rights record. The report classifies the human rights risks as 'medium' and acknowledges the potential for the tournament to catalyze necessary reforms within the kingdom. Although the nation is the sole bidder after Australia withdrew, it faces challenges with stadium construction, as several proposed venues, including the King Salman International Stadium, will not be completed until 2032. FIFA recognizes the logistical complexities posed by Saudi Arabia's extreme summer temperatures, suggesting that the tournament will likely occur in winter, similar to Qatar's 2022 event. Critics, including Amnesty International, have raised alarms about the treatment of migrant workers and the risk of discrimination, while FIFA insists on the commitment to improve labor rights and other aspects of human rights. The final decision on the host will be made at the FIFA Congress on December 11.