Saudi Arabia likely to host 2034 World Cup after Australia decides not to bid for soccer showcase

Published October 31, 2023 1:32 AM

By GRAHAM DUNBAR
AP Sports Writer

GENEVA (AP) — Saudi Arabia is all but certain to host the men’s 2034 World Cup after the Australian soccer federation declined to enter the bidding contest. FIFA had set a Tuesday deadline to submit a bid to host the tournament, but Australia’s decision to pull out leaves Saudi Arabia as the only declared candidate. FIFA still needs to rubber stamp Saudi Arabia as the host — a decision that is likely to be made next year — but victory now seems a formality for the oil-rich kingdom. It would be the culmination of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious drive to become a major player in global sports.

Article Topic Follows: AP-National

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