Saudi Arabia confirmed as host of 2034 World Cup despite human rights concerns

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Two years after the World Cup was played in Qatar, where human rights were questioned, FIFA is running back a similar template a decade from now.

The organization announced Wednesday the 2034 World Cup will be hosted by Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia was the only country to submit a bid prior to the Oct. 31, 2023, deadline.

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The FIFA logo on a banner before a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 semifinal match between France and Morocco at Al Bayt Stadium Dec. 14, 2022, in Al Khor, Qatar.  (Visionhaus/Getty Images)

Qatar hosted the tournament last year, which was won by Argentina, and the country was dogged by years-long allegations of rights abuses of migrant workers needed to build its stadiums.

However, FIFA and Saudi officials have said hosting the 2034 tournament can accelerate change, including more freedoms and rights for women, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Wednesday calling the World Cup a "unique catalyst for positive social change and unity."

The win will kick off a decade of scrutiny on Saudi labor laws and treatment of workers needed to help build and upgrade 15 stadiums, hotels and transportation networks ahead of the 104-game tournament.

During the bid campaign, FIFA has accepted limited scrutiny of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record that was widely criticized this year at the United Nations.

A man takes a selfie in front of an oversized FIFA World Cup trophy, which stands in front of the Khalifa Stadium in Qatar. (Peter Kneffel via Getty Images)

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Saudi and international rights groups and