iPhone | iPad
Android
Huawei
Although the Gunners are top as they chase a first title for 20 years, Manchester City are regarded as statistical favourites to win a fourth successive crown
KT APPDOWNLOAD
Saudi Arabia launches formal bid to host 2034 FIFA World Cup
FIFA is expected to rubber-stamp Saudi Arabia as host in an uncontested vote by the governing body's federations before the end of 2024
Saudi Arabia launched its formal bid campaign Friday to host the 2034 World Cup, in a race that basically became a formality last October when the oil-rich kingdom was the only candidate to enter the contest.
The Saudi Arabian soccer federation revealed the bid slogan “Growing. Together” and a campaign logo of two multi-coloured ribbons forming the number 34.
The logo “is designed to capture the essence of Saudi Arabia’s young nation, vibrant society and rich heritage,” the federation said.
FIFA is expected to rubber-stamp Saudi Arabia as host in an uncontested vote by the governing body's 211 member federations before the end of 2024. A date and venue for the vote has not been announced.
The bid launch gave no new details of host cities and stadiums for the 48-team tournament expected to be held in November-December 2034.
Saudi Arabia currently aims to host the tournament alone, though some games could later be shared with neighbouring and nearby states.
The first 48-team men’s World Cup will be held in 2026 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The 2030 edition will be played mostly in Spain, Portugal and Morocco, with one game each given to Argentina, Paraguay and the inaugural 1930 host Uruguay. Those hosting plans must also be confirmed formally this year.
By locking in Africa, Europe and South America together for 2030, FIFA was able to limit the 2034 hosting to bidders from Asia and Oceania — all but ensuring Saudi Arabia would win.
ALSO READ:
More news from Sports
Highly-rated 19-year-old Turkish midfielder Arda Guler scores match-winner on his first La Liga start
After a gap of nine years, the National side will play in the premier T20 tournament scheduled to be jointly hosted by the UAE and Oman
Debutant and |Dubai amateur Oscar Craig makes the cut on a tough day dominated by warm winds
Chief organiser Tony Estanguet says the goal is to organise a 'spectacular but also more responsible Games which will contribute towards a more inclusive society'
Hag will hopeful Luke Shaw, Anthony Martial and Lisandro Martinez will return before the season's end
Nadal scores crushing straight-set win over American teenager Darwin Blanch as Rublev ends four-match losing streak
The England star smashed nine sixes and eight fours in his 48-ball 108 as the Kings eclipsed the previous record set by South Africa who overhauled a target of 258 by the West Indies in 2023
