Saudi Arabia Hosting the World Cup: A Reputational Minefield for FIFA
The announcement that Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup is fresh, but it’s already sparking intense conversations. Critics are raising concerns about the reputational risks for FIFA and global football associations, accusing the organisation of prioritising financial gain over ethical considerations. While Saudi Arabia frames this as a key step in its Vision 2030 initiative, many see it as an attempt to divert attention from its ongoing human rights abuses—a shiny spectacle masking deeply ingrained issues.
With Australia withdrawing its bid, Saudi Arabia stood unopposed, raising questions about FIFA’s selection process. The BBC has reported that this lack of competition will intensify scrutiny on the organisation’s decision-making, particularly given its 2017 commitment to considering human rights in hosting bids. How those commitments align with Saudi Arabia’s human rights record is a question FIFA seems unprepared to answer.
A Host with a Troubling Reputation
Despite efforts to modernise its global image, Saudi Arabia’s track record remains a focal point for critics. Reforms like allowing women to drive or easing male guardianship laws are commendable, but they don’t mask the systemic issues. Freedom of speech remains heavily restricted, LGBTQ+ individuals face severe persecution, and the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi continues to cast a long shadow.
Awarding the World Cup to Saudi Arabia feels like déjà vu after the controversies surrounding Qatar 2022. FIFA faces a tough challenge justifying its choice to partner with a host whose values sharply contrast with the inclusive nature that football increasingly champions. For critics, this decision isn’t just about football—it’s about FIFA prioritising financial rewards over human rights and integrity.
Reputational Risks for FIFA and Football Associations
FIFA’s decision to award Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup puts both the governing body and participating national football associations (FAs) in a difficult position. FIFA has already faced years of criticism for its history of controversial hosting decisions, and Saudi Arabia’s human rights record only amplifies these concerns. The global governing body will now be forced to defend its choice, which risks alienating fans, sponsors, and stakeholders who may see this as a failure to prioritise its values of inclusivity and equality.
For national football associations, particularly those in countries that have made strong commitments to human rights and inclusivity, the risks are even more pronounced. FA officials will face pressure to either speak out against the decision or take action to distance themselves from the tournament. Teams with vocal commitments to LGBTQ+ rights, such as England or Sweden, may face internal and external pressure to refuse participation or advocate for meaningful change in Saudi Arabia before the tournament. There’s also the risk of fan backlash. With many fans becoming increasingly aware of human rights issues, any perceived hypocrisy could spark a wave of protests or calls for boycotts.
The Risks of Hosting in a Controversial Country
Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is an ambitious attempt to rebrand the nation as progressive and modern. But hosting the World Cup brings its own risks. Instead of enhancing the kingdom’s reputation, the tournament could amplify existing criticisms, shining a harsh light on Saudi Arabia’s policies. Human rights organisations are already preparing to use the event as a platform to expose ongoing abuses, ensuring that Saudi Arabia’s controversial policies remain front and centre.
FIFA, meanwhile, faces mounting accusations of hypocrisy. The 2034 World Cup bid process, which lacked serious competition, highlights concerns that FIFA’s primary motivation is financial rather than a commitment to human rights. As the BBC’s coverage of this decision shows, FIFA has placed itself at the heart of a debate it may not be prepared to handle.
A Gamble for the Game
The Saudi World Cup is more than just another tournament—it’s a defining moment for football. For FIFA, the stakes are immense. Will the organisation embrace its role as a steward of the game, standing for inclusivity and equality? Or will it continue down the path of prioritising profit over principle?
One thing is certain: the 2034 World Cup will be watched closely—not just for the football on display, but for the global conversations it ignites. From human rights to corporate responsibility, Saudi Arabia’s World Cup guarantees to be as contentious off the pitch as it will be thrilling on it.