Saudi Arabia is in line to host the 2030 FIFA world cup after the announcement that the Kingdom has submitted only expression of interest in hosting the tournament.
The decision will be ratified officially at the end of next year, provided all the technical criteria are met. The bid comes one year after neighboring Qatar hosted for the first world cup in the Middle East 66ß
At this point only expression of interest has been submitted. After the full bid for 2030 and 2034 are handed over. They will be evaluated by FIFA and put to a vote at two separate congress meeting at the end of 2024. But the absence of no competition leaves little room for suspense while also raising numerous questions about the environmental impact of the 2030 event. And the compatibility of the 20230 tournament with FIFA human rights commitment.
Saudi Arabia was initially bidding for 20230 world cup alongside Egypt and Greece. But that idea was abandoned in June leaving the path open for the tri- continental.
