FIFA has succeeded in its sleight of hand. By granting the 2026 World Cup to the United States-Canada-Mexico trio and by organizing the 2030 edition on three continents and in six countries (Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Spain, Portugal Morocco), the governing body had opened the royal road to Saudi Arabia for the organization of the 2034 World Cup. Indeed, according to the regulations of the governing body, only Asia and Oceania were entitled to send a candidacy.
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But with Australia as its only rival, Saudi Arabia did not really tremble, especially since the nation-continent quickly understood that it was better for it to withdraw, aware of the hyper favorite status of the oil state. The Saudi bid has yet to be officially declared the winner by the FIFA Council, but on October 31, Gianni Infantino quickly put an end to the suspense.
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FIFA is stuffing itself thanks to the Saudis
“The Greatest Show on Earth will be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States in 2026 – in North America. The next two editions of the FIFA World Cup are expected to be hosted in Africa (Morocco) and Europe (Portugal and Spain) – with three celebration matches played in South America (Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay) – in 2030 and in Asia (Saudi Arabia) in 2034. Three editions, five continents and ten countries involved in staging matches in the tournament – that makes football truly global! The tender processes were approved by consensus via the FIFA Council – where all six confederations are represented – after constructive dialogue and extensive consultation. »
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News that delights the Saudi authorities… and FIFA. THE Times we learn this evening that the governing body of world football is on the verge of concluding a very juicy deal with the Saudi oil giant Aramco. Already a partner of Formula 1 and present in cricket and golf, Aramco should soon become one of the preferred partners. An agreement supposed to last until 2034, or around ten years, and which could bring in around €96 million per year for FIFA. The two parties did not wish to comment on the news, but if the agreement is signed, it is a check for €960 million which extends its arms to FIFA and Infantino.
Pub. 11/16/2023 9:00 p.m. Updated 11/16/2023 10:19 p.m.
2023-11-16 20:00:19
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