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The Football Association (FA) has defended its decision to support Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup, describing it as “not difficult” after receiving numerous commitments from the organizers, according to FA Chair Debbie Hewitt.
On Wednesday, FIFA confirmed Saudi Arabia as the host for the 2034 men’s tournament. Despite assurances from the organizers that everyone will be welcome, the country has faced criticism for its human rights violations, women’s rights abuses, and the criminalization of homosexuality.
Hewitt told BBC Radio 5 Live that the FA conducted a thorough process before backing the bid. “It wasn’t a difficult decision – I think it was a very thorough process,” she said. “We spent a lot of time with the Saudis, understanding their approach to the tournament.
“We asked a lot of questions, they gave us a lot of time and commitments,” Hewitt added. “The important thing is that we will now work with them over the next 10 years to ensure those commitments are delivered.
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Last month, the FA met with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) to discuss the bid in more detail. The FA said it was assured the SAFF is committed to providing a safe environment for all fans, including LGBTQ+ supporters.
“We were reassured by the answers we got and believe this is about a partnership,” said Hewitt, emphasizing the FA’s role in consulting with the right groups to ensure inclusivity.
The 2034 World Cup will mark the second time the tournament is held in the Middle East, following Qatar’s hosting in 2022. However, Saudi Arabia’s international reputation has been tainted by the 2018 killing of Jamal Khashoggi, a US-based Saudi journalist and critic of the government.
Rodney Dixon KC, who previously represented Khashoggi’s widow, Hatice Cengiz, criticized the FA’s support for Saudi Arabia, suggesting they have “merely followed the crowd” rather than taking a stand against the kingdom’s violations. Dixon urged the FA and other supporters to press for necessary reforms in Saudi Arabia before the 2034 World Cup, and if not achieved, to withdraw the tournament.
England coach Thomas Tuchel backed the FA’s stance, stating, “The federations made their votes, the decision is done.” He also discussed the possibility of the World Cup being moved to the winter, as was the case for the 2022 Qatar World Cup due to the summer heat.
The FA has faced scrutiny over how its support for the LGBTQ+ community aligns with backing a tournament in a country where homosexuality is illegal. FA officials emphasized the commitments from Saudi authorities to ensure the safety of LGBTQ+ fans, but some remain skeptical given past issues during the Qatar World Cup.
With a potential joint bid for the 2031 Women’s World Cup, the British football federations may have aimed to avoid a rift with FIFA. The FA also acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance to the UK government as a key Middle East ally.
As the 2034 World Cup approaches, the FA’s decision will continue to be scrutinized, particularly regarding human rights and inclusivity commitments.
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The FA maintains that it will work closely with Saudi Arabia to ensure a successful and inclusive tournament. For more updates and detailed coverage, stay tuned to our latest news section.
