PREVIEW

Saudi Arabia Announced as 2034 World Cup Host. FIFA officially announces Spain, Portugal, and Morocco for the 2030 World Cup and Saudi Arabia for 2034 amid global scrutiny. Human rights groups, including HRW, warn of an "unimaginable human cost" linked to Saudi Arabia hosting the event. Saudi Arabia’s World Cup bid aligns with Vision 2030, Crown Prince MBS’s plan to diversify the economy and enhance global influence through sports. Through the Public Investment Fund, Saudi Arabia has spent billions on sports, from purchasing Newcastle United to signing soccer legends like Ronaldo and Neymar. Saudi Arabia pledges to build or renovate 11 stadiums and 185,000 hotel rooms for the tournament. HRW highlights the exploitation of migrant workers under the Kafala system and ongoing issues with press freedom, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s rights. FIFA’s report categorizes Saudi’s human rights risks as “medium” but claims hosting could drive progress under Vision 2030. Advocacy groups accuse FIFA of overlooking key concerns, urging delays until tangible human rights reforms are implemented. Lina al-Hathloul, whose sister was jailed for women’s rights activism, describes Saudi Arabia as a “pure police state” under Crown Prince MBS. Amnesty International and HRW demand that FIFA postpone awarding the World Cup until Saudi Arabia improves human rights protections. Critics argue Saudi Arabia uses high-profile events to distract from human rights abuses, a charge Crown Prince MBS has dismissed. Despite criticism, FIFA highlights a “thorough” bidding process, asserting Saudi Arabia’s potential to drive positive changes through the tournament.
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