Saudi Arabia was officially confirmed by FIFA as the host of the 2034 men’s football World Cup on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s ambitious drive to become a global sports powerhouse under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The unopposed Saudi bid was approved by acclamation during Wednesday’s virtual Extraordinary FIFA Congress meeting led by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, with more than 200 FIFA member federations applauding remotely. 

FIFA also announced Morocco, Portugal, and Spain as co-hosts for the 2030 tournament. To celebrate the centenary of the first World Cup held in 1930, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will each host one match, making it a six-nation project. The tournament will feature 104 games.

“The vote of the congress is loud and clear,” Infantino added after the hosting rights were officially approved.

The 2034 tournament will mark the World Cup’s return to the Middle East, following Qatar’s hosting of the 2022 event.

The Crown Prince applauded the Kingdom’s victory, emphasizing its broader vision for unity and progress. “This reflects the Kingdom’s determination to spread messages of love, peace, and tolerance, supported by its immense capabilities and the high spirits of the Saudi people to overcome challenges,” he stated.

Saudi sports minister Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki Al Faisal said: “FIFA Congress, allow me first of all to hand out my thanks to the trust that you have conveyed into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

“It is a day that we invited the entire world to Saudi Arabia. We intend to have an extraordinary version of the World Cup held in our kingdom.”

The Football Association explained its support for 2030 and 2034 in a statement shortly after confirmation of the hosting decisions. “Both bids are technically strong and meet the FIFA criteria to host the men’s World Cup,” it stated.