FIFA chiefs will agree to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia despite human rights groups raising concerns about the country
The decision will be announced by FIFA chief Gianni Infantino today after five years of campaigning by the Kingdom, and despite fierce opposition from human rights campaigners, climate activists and even some football associations.
The Saudi tournament is likely to be played over 38 days from the start of January 2034 to avoid a clash with the Islamic Holy month of Ramadan in November and December, with FIFA’s official evaluation report of their bid awarding the country a record score of 419.8/500 and deeming it to be 'medium risk' on human rights and timing and 'low risk' on sustainability commitment and environmental protection.
As well as sustainability fears there are also concerns from the LGBTQ community with same-sex relations are illegal in Saudi Arabia and are punishable by the death penalty, unlimited prison terms, flogging, fines and forced deportation.
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