FIFA Announces Host Countries for 2030 and 2034 World Cups

FIFA has officially announced the host countries for the 2030 and 2034 FIFA World Cups during its annual Congress. The decision marks a historic moment, as six nations will co-host the 2030 World Cup, while Saudi Arabia has been granted exclusive hosting rights for the 2034 edition.

FIFA World Cup 2030: Six-Nation Co-Hosting

For the first time in FIFA’s history, the 2030 World Cup will be hosted by six countries:

• Argentina
• Uruguay
• Paraguay
• Spain
• Portugal
• Morocco

This unique arrangement comes as part of FIFA’s celebration of the 100th anniversary of the World Cup, as Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay also hosted the inaugural tournament in 1930. These three South American countries will host the first three matches of the 2030 World Cup. After these opening matches, the remainder of the tournament will be played in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

Notably, only Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will serve as the main organizing countries for the rest of the World Cup matches, handling most of the logistical and operational responsibilities.

FIFA World Cup 2034: Saudi Arabia as Sole Host

Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, marking the first time the Kingdom has hosted football’s most prestigious tournament. The Gulf nation has already outlined plans to construct and upgrade 15 stadiums to meet FIFA’s stringent standards. Out of these, 11 will be brand new stadiums, while the remaining four will undergo extensive upgrades.

Saudi Arabia’s selection to host the 2034 World Cup aligns with the nation’s broader push to become a global sports hub, as seen in its increased involvement in high-profile sports events such as boxing, Formula 1, and golf.

• Historic 6-Nation Hosting (2030): The 2030 World Cup will be jointly hosted by six nations, a first in FIFA history.
• 100-Year Anniversary Tribute: Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay will host the first three matches to commemorate 100 years since the inaugural 1930 World Cup.
• Exclusive Host (2034): Saudi Arabia will be the sole host for the 2034 World Cup, symbolizing its growing influence in the global sports arena.
• New Infrastructure: Saudi Arabia will build 11 new stadiums and upgrade 4 existing venues to meet FIFA’s requirements.

The selection of hosts for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups is seen as a move toward inclusivity and regional representation, reflecting FIFA’s goal to bring football to new parts of the world. Fans and analysts will be closely watching as these countries prepare to deliver the world’s most-watched sporting event.