Saudi Poised To Host 2034 World Cup as Australia Withdraws From Bidding Race
The likelihood of Saudi Arabia hosting the men’s 2034 World Cup has surged after the Australian football federation withdrew from the bidding contest.
With FIFA’s Tuesday deadline for bid submissions passed Saudi Arabia emerges as the sole declared candidate.
Football Australia, in a statement, cited a comprehensive consideration of factors for its decision not to bid for the 2034 competition.
While FIFA’s formal approval of Saudi Arabia as the host is pending until next year, victory appears imminent for the Kingdom, marking the realisation of its ambitious endeavours to establish a significant presence in global sports.
The fast-tracked 2034 hosting race, limited to member federations in Asia and Oceania, was initiated following the awarding of the 2030 World Cup to a joint bid by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.
The Saudi Football Federation promptly declared its candidacy, receiving backing from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
Indonesia initially considered a joint bid with Australia, alongside Malaysia and Singapore, but ultimately supported Saudi Arabia.
