Berlin, 6 October 2023 (dpa/MIA) - Saudi Arabia confirmed on Wednesday that it will bid for the 2034 World Cup, pleding to deliver "a world-class tournament and draw inspiration from Saudi Arabia's ongoing social and economic transformation and the country's deep-rooted passion for football."

The announcement came on the heels of the decision by the ruling body FIFA to award the 2030 tournament to Morocco, Portugal and Spain, with games also to be played in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay.

FIFA said that this decision, plus Canada, Mexico and the United States hosting the 2026 edition, means that only bidders from Asia and Oceania are allowed for 2034 in its scheme of rotating the showcase event.

Austria may also be interested after successfully staging this year's women's World Cup together with New Zealand.

But Saudi Arabia is expected to be a strong candidate despite ongoing sportswashing accusations from right groups who say the country is using sport to defer from its human rights record.

Saudi Arabia has been named host of the 2023 Club World Cup and the 2027 Asian Cup, and a large number of football stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have joined its money-laden Pro League in recent months.

The country also stages an annual Formula One race, equestrian events, golf tournaments and has been awarded the 2029 Asian Winter Games.

“We believe the time is right for Saudi Arabia to host the FIFA World Cup. Our bid is driven by a love for the game and a desire to see it grow in every corner of the world. We want to celebrate our football culture and share our country with the world," Saudi football federation president Yasser Al Misehal said.

But even before the official announcement the Football Supporters Europe strongly criticised FIFA over its 2030 decision which could open the door for Saudi Arabia.

It said the decision helps "Saudi Arabia to bid for 2034 uncontested" and "rolls the red carpet out to a host for 2034 with an appalling human rights record. It's the end of the World Cup as we know it."

Photo: Facebook