By Victor Akan
World football governing body FIFA on Wednesday announced that Saudi Arabia will host the men’s football World Cup of 2034.
FIFA’s choice has however come amid criticism from human rights groups and concern the decision by its congress could mean another tournament in the northern hemisphere winter.
At an extraordinary virtual congress, and in the absence of rival bidders, the 211 FIFA members also confirmed via one acclamation that Morocco, Portugal and Spain will co-host the 2030 event.
That event will start with three matches in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay to celebrate a century since the first World Cup in 1930 at Uruguay.
All countries presented videos before the vote to showcase their bids, with Portugal great Luis Figo starring in a humorous film for the joint 2030 bid.
Two 13-year-old youth representatives started the Saudi presentation, and the nation pledged to deliver “a next generation World Cup for a new generation of fans.”
FIFA president Gianni Infantino, in his remarks, spoke of “a historic moment”, adding “let’s unite the world with football and through football.”
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