December 12 – AFC president Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa congratulated Saudi Arabia on being confirmed as the host of the 2034 World Cup saying he was confident that the country would leave a lasting legacy, not just in Asia but within the wider football world.
It is the second time in 12 years that the World Cup will be held in a West Asian, Arab country, having been held in Qatar in 2022. It will be the third time in 25 editions that the World Cup will have been hosted in an AFC country, with Japan and Korea being the first time in 2002.
“The AFC and the entire Asian football family extend our warmest congratulations to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Minister of Sport Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, Saudi Arabian Football Federation President Yasser Almisehal, and the people of Saudi Arabia on securing the hosting rights for the FIFA World Cup 2034. This is a momentous occasion for Saudi Arabia, the AFC, and the whole of Asia,” said Salman.
On the way to 2034 hosting, Saudi Arabia will host the AFC’s blue riband national team competition in 2027 in the run-up to the FIFA World Cup.
“Hosting the AFC Asian Cup™ in 2027 will be a key stepping stone for Saudi Arabia’s preparations for the FIFA World Cup as it will allow them to gain invaluable experience, improve their infrastructure and operations, and test their capabilities in key areas like security and fan engagement,” said Salman.
The 2023 Asian Cup in Qatar held earlier this broke all AFC records for attendance through to fan engagement.
For 2034 Saudi Arabia is proposing 15 stadiums with 11 being built from scratch, in addition to refurbishing four already existing venues.
“Saudi Arabia’s successful bid is a testament to the Kingdom’s vision, commitment, and passion for football. We have full confidence in their ability to host an extraordinary FIFA World Cup that will leave a lasting legacy for the sport in Asia and beyond,” said Salman.
“The AFC is committed to working closely with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and FIFA to ensure the successful delivery of the FIFA World Cup 2034. Together, we will create an unforgettable experience for football fans around the globe,” he continued.
“This historic achievement marks a new chapter for Asian football. With Saudi Arabia hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2034, we are confident that Asia will continue to play a leading role on the global stage.”
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