FIFA Reveals Saudi Arabia Achieves Highest Score In World Cup 2034 Bidding History

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has revealed the results of its Bid Evaluation Report for Saudi Arabia's proposal to host the FIFA World Cup 2034. The bid achieved a score of 419.8 out of 500, marking the highest score in FIFA World Cup history. This announcement comes just weeks before the official decision on hosts for the 2030 and 2034 tournaments at an extraordinary FIFA congress.

Saudi Arabia's bid reflects strong support from its leadership, particularly from HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The bid aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to fulfil the aspirations of its people. In October, FIFA conducted an inspection visit to assess proposed host cities, stadiums, and facilities across Saudi Arabia.

HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, expressed gratitude for the support from Saudi leadership. He stated: "I extend my deepest gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and HRH the Crown Prince for their support and empowerment, which played a pivotal role in achieving this outstanding result." He emphasised that Saudi Arabia is a football-loving nation with a young population eager for a bright future.

The bid was officially submitted in July under the slogan "Growing. Together," proposing matches across 15 stadiums in five host cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Khobar, Abha, and NEOM. Additionally, there are plans for 10 other host locations throughout the Kingdom. This ambitious plan aims to host the world’s first 48-team FIFA World Cup in one country.

Yasser Al-Misehal, President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, highlighted the leadership's role in achieving this exceptional score. He remarked: "This exceptional score is the result of the leadership’s support and the guidance of His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, whose vision has been the driving force behind the remarkable growth of the sports sector in Saudi Arabia." The bid aims to deliver an extraordinary tournament experience for players, officials, and fans worldwide.

Hammad Albalawi, head of Saudi Arabia's FIFA World Cup 2034 bid unit, expressed pride in achieving this unprecedented score. He stated: "We take huge pride in this unprecedented score. It highlights the country’s collaborative efforts to present the highest technical standards throughout this bid." The bid showcases five host cities with diverse cultures and landscapes.

Cultural Diversity

The proposed host cities offer fans unique experiences to explore different regions of Saudi Arabia. The additional 10 host locations will enhance experiences with modern training facilities and advanced sports infrastructure. Excellent connectivity between sites is also planned to ensure smooth logistics for teams and fans alike.

Hosting such a significant event represents an opportunity to highlight ongoing progress since Vision 2030 was launched by HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This vision has positioned Saudi Arabia as a leader in hosting global sports events like FIFA Club World Cup™️ and Formula 1™️ Grand Prix.

Sustainable Development

The bid supports Vision 2030 goals by building a vibrant society while fostering athletic talent and contributing economically. It also aims to improve life quality for citizens and visitors alike. Collaboration with initiatives like Saudi Green Initiative ensures an environmentally sustainable tournament edition.

This historic opportunity underscores how far-reaching efforts have already transformed football within Saudi Arabia while promising benefits globally through hosting one of sport's largest events.

With inputs from SPA