Infantino’s master plan
How the FIFA boss steered the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia
Uruguay will only get one World Cup game in 2030, while Saudi Arabia will host the tournament alone four years later. Is there a FIFA geopolitical master plan behind this?
Uruguay made sporting history with the first World Cup in 1930. If the football-loving people had their way, the country would also host the 2030 World Cup to mark its 100th anniversary. The economic situation and lack of infrastructure in the South American nation stand in the way of this wish. Uruguay will at least be able to host one of the 2030 World Cup games.
In addition to Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay also receive one game each. The host nations play their first game in their own country and then fly with their opponents across the Atlantic to Portugal, Spain and Morocco – where the rest of the World Cup continues for them. The tournament will take place in six countries and on three continents.
Why does FIFA accept this logistical effort? Apparently to clear the way for the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia. It’s no secret that FIFA boss Gianni Infantino maintains excellent relations in the desert state. Saudi Arabia is his preferred host for the 2034 World Cup.
Saudi Arabia as the sole organizer
Since the 2030 World Cup will be held on three continents (South America, Europe, Africa), countries from the relevant associations will be eliminated from the awarding of the 2034 World Cup according to FIFA’s rotation principle. The same applies to the 2026 host, North America.
Only Asia and Oceania remained as possible hosts for the tournament. But Australia was the last to decide against it in autumn 2023 – probably also due to the short application period. The path was therefore clear for Saudi Arabia to be the only candidate.
The official awarding of the 2030 and 2034 World Championships will take place on Wednesday. The host countries have virtually been determined. Saudi Arabia wants to host the World Cup alone in ten years.
FIFA: “Very good financial prospects”
In the past, human rights organizations have often criticized the poor conditions for workers, the press and minorities in Saudi Arabia. A Fifa report said the tournament had great potential to “act as an accelerator for current and future reforms” in relation to human rights.
But it also says that Saudi Arabia’s application offers “very good financial prospects.” An important factor for FIFA and Infantino, whose plan will definitely work.
Source: Stern
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