Saudi Arabia soccer federation has recently taken a stance on the idea of hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup during the summer. It is being reported weeks after Australia pulled out of the bidding procedure to host the soccer’s biggest event in 2034 clearing the way for the Gulf country.
However, the idea of hosting the World Cup during the summer season has set the Internet ablaze. Looking back at the World Cup from last year, which was hosted by Qatar, it’s clear that the event drew in a large number of attendees. This is likely due to the fact that the event was held during November and December when the weather was milder.
🚨 Saudi Arabia are weighing up holding the 2034 World Cup in summer, despite the extreme heat expected in the Middle East at that point in the year. ☀️🔥🇸🇦
(Source: @MailSport) pic.twitter.com/Q4wIdXzbJo
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) December 9, 2023
Fans have criticized the idea of holding the tournament in the summer when temperatures can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius, as this would be too demanding for the players. One fan said, “Money talks over sense when FIFA is concerned.” Another quirked, “Then it will record the worst attendance ever.” A third said, “Players and fans died of sunstroke ahh can’t wait for that.”
Money will talk
— J.O.A.N.N.I.E❤️ (@JOANNIE91454771) December 9, 2023
Saudi Arabia’s Sports Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, said that a summer tournament may still take place despite uncertainty surrounding the scheduling of the tournament during the soccer season.
He said, “I don’t know to be honest. Definitely, we are studying both options, to see which is the best option to host the World Cup.’ Hopefully, we will find out. Definitely, we will work to make sure it is the best World Cup to ever be hosted.”
Now it is to see how the authorities finally conclude. Usually, a soccer season gets over by the end of June following the UEFA Champions League final if we are talking of a European scenario.
Saudi Arabian Sports Minister defends the country’s right to host the FIFA World Cup
During a recent interview with BBC, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, defended the country’s bid to host the men’s soccer World Cup amidst claims of ‘sportswashing.’
He stated, “A lot of the people that accuse us of that haven’t been to Saudi, or seen what we are doing.”
Claims about sportwashing have been made due to the idea that excessive expenditures on sports are a calculated way to improve the country’s reputation, especially regarding human rights issues and the environment.
Exclusive:
Saudi Arabia’s Sports Minister tells me ‘sportswashing’ claims are “very shallow” in 1st interview since it emerged the kingdom was the sole bidder to host 2034 World Cup, defending the staggering spending spree transforming world sport ⬇️ https://t.co/2j0KhVWKU9 pic.twitter.com/ZNRuCcNA6U— Dan Roan (@danroan) December 8, 2023
Nevertheless, Prince Abdulaziz Bin Turki Al-Faisai argued that the money dedicated to sports increases the economics of the kingdom, improves tourism, and creates greater opportunities for exercise among Saudi nationals.
Despite concerns over Saudi Arabia’s position regarding homosexuals and women’s rights, the sports minister gave an assurance that “everyone is welcome” at this event.