According to Reuters, Saudi Arabia has become the lone bidder for hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup, as confirmed by soccer’s global governing body on Tuesday. The deadline for bids from Asia and Oceania was set for October 31, and Saudi Arabia swiftly announced its bid on October 4.
Meanwhile, Australia disclosed on Tuesday that it will not be contending to hold the tournament, leaving Saudi Arabia as the only candidate vying for host status.
FIFA stated, “As established in the Bidding Regulations approved by the FIFA Council, the FIFA administration will conduct thorough bidding and evaluation processes for the 2030 and 2034 editions of the FIFA World Cup, with the hosts to be appointed by FIFA Congresses expected to take place by Q4 2024.”
FIFA further verified that Morocco, Portugal, and Spain have expressed their interest in hosting the 2030 World Cup, alongside celebratory games to be staged by Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay. The joint bid by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal was announced on October 4, pending a successful bidding process completion.
Reporting by Trevor Stynes; Editing by Andrew Heavens and Christian Radnedge