RIYADH — On the cusp of a historic moment, Saudi Arabia is eager to hear FIFA's official announcement on Wednesday awarding it the right to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. With no competing bids, Saudi Arabia's proposal has stood unrivaled, earning a record-breaking evaluation score of 419.8 out of 500, the highest ever awarded in FIFA history. Saudi Arabia's bid, under the banner "Growing Together," has received substantial support from the Kingdom's leadership, led by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. The FIFA technical report praised the bid for its modern infrastructure, innovative stadium designs, and strong sustainability initiatives. These include the use of renewable energy and the repurposing of construction materials, ensuring the Kingdom's commitment to environmental responsibility. The proposal features 15 state-of-the-art stadiums across five key cities: Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha, and NEOM. Highlights include the King Salman International Stadium, which will host the opening and final matches, accommodating 93,000 spectators. The stadiums embody unique architectural concepts, from Riyadh's futuristic Qiddiya Stadium atop Tuwaiq Mountain to Jeddah's heritage-inspired Central Stadium and NEOM's cutting-edge facility integrated into "The Line" project. This announcement marks a defining moment in Saudi Arabia's journey to becoming a global sports hub. Beyond football, the Kingdom has already hosted a slew of high-profile events, including Formula 1, Dakar Rally, and international boxing showdowns. The World Cup will further solidify Saudi Arabia's status as a leader in hosting mega sporting events, reflecting the ambitions of Vision 2030. Nationwide celebrations are set to follow the announcement, with fireworks, drone shows, and fan zones in major cities. This historic milestone underscores Saudi Arabia's capacity to deliver a groundbreaking World Cup that will resonate with fans worldwide, blending innovation with the Kingdom's rich cultural heritage. As the clock ticks down to FIFA's announcement, Saudi Arabia stands ready to embark on a new chapter in its sporting legacy, cementing its position on the global stage and inspiring millions through the power of football.
