FIFA announces host country of World Cup 2030, 2034

FIFA has officially confirmed Saudi Arabia as the host country for the 2034 World Cup, while the 2030 World Cup will take place in three European countries: Morocco, Portugal and Spain, with three special matches held in Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the tournament.

The decision was made at an extraordinary FIFA congress on December 11, with the consensus of more than 200 member associations. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stressed that the expansion of the tournament would increase opportunities for countries and would not reduce quality. "We are writing a new chapter for world football. The 2030 and 2034 World Cups will be memorable events, bringing football closer to everyone," said Infantino.

The 2030 World Cup will be a global football festival, spanning three continents and six countries. The opening match will be held at the Centenario Stadium in Montevideo, Uruguay - the site of the first World Cup final in 1930. This is FIFA's way of honoring the tournament's significant 100-year milestone.

"There is nothing better than looking back at history while creating the future," Mr. Infantino shared.

As the only country to bid, Saudi Arabia was awarded the right to host the 2034 World Cup by FIFA. This is the first time the country has hosted such a major tournament, in the context of a strong transformation journey.

"This is a historic moment for our country. We are committed to delivering a great World Cup, not only for our fans but also for the world of football," said Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Saud, President of the Saudi Arabian Olympic and Paralympic Committee.

Star Cristiano Ronaldo, who has helped promote football in this country, expressed his excitement: "The infrastructure, stadiums, and excellent conditions here will make the 2034 World Cup the most memorable World Cup."

While the decision was widely welcomed, it was not without controversy. The Norwegian Football Association criticised FIFA's bidding process as "lacking transparency", while human rights organisations such as Amnesty International condemned the awarding of the tournament to Saudi Arabia without ensuring human rights standards.

In addition, FIFA will face major European leagues over plans to hold the Winter World Cup, requiring consensus from clubs and players to avoid disruption to the schedule. By expanding to 48 teams and organizing on multiple continents, FIFA is demonstrating its ambition to bring football closer to global fans.

"Celebrating 100 years of the World Cup on three continents, followed by a World Cup in a country that is transforming itself - that is a promising future for world football," Mr. Infantino concluded.