Saudi Arabia Gears Up For FIFA World Cup 2034 Bid With Crown Prince’s Endorsement

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, has endorsed Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034TM. This endorsement follows the completion of the bid's detailed requirements before submitting the bid book to FIFA in Paris. The delegation is led by HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal Al Saud, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic and Paralympic Committee, along with Yasser Al Misehal, President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF).

HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal Al Saud expressed his gratitude to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince for their support. He highlighted that this backing has transformed Saudi Arabia into a global sports hub during a period of significant growth and change. "We are committed to hosting an exceptional edition of the FIFA World CupTM set to feature 48 teams in a single country for the first time in the history of the competition," he stated.

The official bid book submission will occur at a ceremony hosted by FIFA in Paris. HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal Al Saud and Yasser Al Misehal will lead the delegation, accompanied by two children from SAFF youth regional training centres. This inclusion symbolises Saudi Arabia’s young generation's ambition to host this prestigious football event.

The journey towards this bid began on 4 October 2023 when Saudi Arabia announced its intention to bid through SAFF. Following this, SAFF submitted its official letter of intent to FIFA and revealed the bid brand identity under the slogan ‘Growing. Together.’ The bid period will conclude in December when FIFA announces the host nation during a General Assembly meeting.

HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal Al Saud emphasised that hosting this iconic global football event aligns with Vision 2030. It aims to nurture athletes capable of competing at the highest global stage. "His Royal Highness the Crown Prince’s direct supervision showcases his commitment to elevating Saudi sport," he added.

The participation of two children from SAFF youth centres highlights an initiative by SAFF, representing Saudi Arabia’s young generation's aspirations. This move underscores their ambition to host one of the world's most significant sporting events.

The official bid book is part of Saudi Arabia's journey towards hosting FIFA World Cup 2034TM. The process started with announcing their intention and submitting an official letter of intent before unveiling their bid brand identity.

HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal Al Saud reiterated that Saudi Arabia is ready to showcase its transformation across all sectors. He noted what their youthful population can offer and their capabilities in hosting major sporting events globally.

The final announcement regarding which nation will host FIFA World Cup 2034TM will be made by FIFA during a General Assembly meeting in December later this year.

With inputs from SPA