Sign in Subscribe
Professional soccer

Saudi Arabia Unveils Ambitious Bid to Host 2026 FIFA World Cup in Single Country

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Saudi Arabia, a country with a rich football heritage, has submitted a formal bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034 in a single country, with the aim of showcasing its infrastructure development and passion for the sport. The bid, which was officially unveiled by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, outlines an ambitious plan to host the largest-ever edition of the FIFA World Cup in a single country, with 48 teams competing in 15 advanced stadiums.

The bid book, which was submitted at an official FIFA ceremony in Paris, France, highlights Saudi Arabia's comprehensive plans to host the FIFA World Cup, including the development of five host cities, 15 stadiums, and over 230,000 rooms for VIPs, FIFA delegations, participating teams, media personnel, and tournament fans. The host cities are Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and NEOM, with Riyadh set to be home to eight stadiums, including the new King Salman Stadium, which will accommodate over 92,000 spectators and host the opening and final matches of the tournament.

Key Takeaways:

  • Saudi Arabia has submitted a formal bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034 in a single country, aiming to showcase its infrastructure development and passion for football.
  • The bid outlines a comprehensive plan to host the largest-ever edition of the FIFA World Cup in a single country, with 48 teams competing in 15 advanced stadiums.
  • The host cities are Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and NEOM, with Riyadh set to be home to eight stadiums, including the new King Salman Stadium.
  • The bid includes plans for over 230,000 rooms for VIPs, FIFA delegations, participating teams, media personnel, and tournament fans.
  • The Kingdom will have 132 training venues located across 15 cities, including 72 stadiums designated for Base Camp Training Sites.
  • Saudi Arabia aims to host a tournament that will rank as the most-watched sporting event in history, while providing an unforgettable experience for all.

Statistics:

  • 48 teams will compete in the FIFA World Cup 2034.
  • 15 advanced stadiums will be built in the host cities.
  • Over 230,000 rooms will be available for VIPs, FIFA delegations, participating teams, media personnel, and tournament fans.
  • 132 training venues will be located across 15 cities.
  • 72 stadiums will be designated for Base Camp Training Sites.
  • The Kingdom aims to host the most-watched sporting event in history.

Sources:

  • SPA -- The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) today unveiled details of Saudi Arabia's ambitious bid to host the largest-ever edition of the FIFA World Cup™ held in a single country.
  • Saudi Press Agency (SPA) -- Riyadh, July 31, 2024.
  • Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee -- Official website.
  • FIFA -- Official website.

Read more