Saudi Arabia’s candidacy to host the 2034 Football World Cup would require more “significant efforts” and commitments to according to a FIFA evaluation report published on Saturday.
The report was released ten days before the FIFA Congress is set to officially announce the host countries for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups on 11 December.
Saudi Arabia is currently the sole candidate for 2034.
FIFA states that Saudi Arabia’s bid for 2034 presents “a very solid proposition overall” and has clearly demonstrated its capability to host the tournament.
However, FIFA noted that, in terms of human rights, the pledged measures will require considerable time and effort, especially in certain areas. The risk assessment reflects these considerations.
FIFA’s evaluation report categorises the risks related to human rights compliance as “medium.”
“There is a notable likelihood that the competition could act as a catalyst for ongoing and future reforms, generating positive outcomes that extend beyond the tournament in terms of human rights for the Saudi Arabian population and neighbouring countries,” the report adds.
Human rights, a source of intense controversy during the 2022 World Cup in neighbouring Qatar, are likely to become a major topic again if Saudi Arabia is awarded to host the 2034 World Cup.
Saudi Arabia, which enforces the death penalty and severely restricts freedom of expression, frequently faces criticism for its human rights record.
