Saudi Arabia launches bid for 2034 World Cup

Saudi Arabia, the only contender to host the 2034 World Cup, has formally launched its bid for the tournament.

The Gulf Kingdom became the sole bidder in October when Australia pulled out of the race hours before Fifa’s deadline for declarations of interest.

A Fifa congress will confirm the hosts later this year.

SAFF President , Yasser Al Misehal says the bid is only possible because of the country’s “rapid transformation”.

Al Misehal added: “Telling our football story to the world is of massive importance.

“We’ve made unprecedented progress in both the men’s and women’s game and our bid is an open invitation to the world to join us on this exciting journey.”

Despite being the only bidder, Fifa regulations require Saudi Arabia to formally bid for the tournament.

The bid uses the slogan “Growing. Together”, which Saff says captures the bond between the “Kingdom, its people and world football”.