Controversial Pick: Football Federation Faces Backlash over 2034 World Cup Support
The announcement that Sweden will support Saudi Arabia as the sole candidate for hosting the 2034 World Cup has ignited controversy within the national football community. The declaration by the Swedish Football Association (SvFF), contingent on nothing unforeseen arriving in the FIFA evaluation report, triggered immediate criticisms. “It’s very strange. There was only one country to choose from, and we have different opinions on where it should be held,” remarked Swedish football star Kosovare Asllani.
Asllani, known for her candid critiques on social issues, particularly human rights, further stated, “You know what I think. I’m not going to run another exposition.” Her comments spotlight the controversy surrounding Saudi Arabia as a potential host, given its widely criticized human rights record.
A History of Condemnation
Last spring, amidst public protest, FIFA reneged on a previouse planned sponsorship agreement with Saudi Arabia’s Visit Saudi for the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Yet, society’s disapproval intensified earlier this year when FIFA forged a sponsorship deal with Aramco, the state-owned Saudi oil company. The agreement sparked widespread condemnation, as over 26 countries, representing over 130 women’s players, issued an open letter demanding FIFA sever ties with Aramco.
Discord Between Players and Federation
Native standout and ChelseaDefender Nathalie Björn mirrored the discord, saying, “It doesn’t send good signals when we, the players, who have voiced our concerns publicly, experience a contrast with a federation taking another path. This division isn’t good to see externally.”
Björn feels that the perceived lack of communication from SvFF amplified the disconnect. “We were informed a decision was on the horizon, professing brief details to manage media coverage and that the decision was made. It felt awkward since parts of why they reached this decision remained insulated from us players – there wasn’t room for open conversation.”
FIFA will convene on December 11th to determine the host for both the 2030 and 2034 World Cups.
Key Dates and Game Changer Points for the 2030 and 2034 World Cups
World Lard Cup are slated for deals ion at a special FIFA Congress on December 11th. The approach will be unique, digital and experiencing a call during which the host will be selected absent formal voting, a process called acclamation .The deadline for registering interest in hosting the 2034 World Cup has passed. Saudi Arabi is the sole candidate appoint reving this World Cup, output roles lances with over 150 out of 211 FIFA member associations. ```
How has FIFA’s past stance on Saudi Arabia seemingly shifted regarding the 2034 World Cup?
## Controversial Pick: Football Federation Faces Backlash over 2034 World Cup Support
**Host: ** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is [Guest Name], a leading sportswriter with expertise in international football. [Guest Name], thank you for being with us.
**Guest:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** A lot of people are buzzing today about the news that Sweden will be supporting Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup. This has sparked quite a bit of controversy. What’s your take on this?
**Guest:** It’s certainly a controversial decision. While Saudi Arabia did secure the hosting rights, the support from Sweden has raised eyebrows, especially considering the ongoing concerns about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record [[1](https://www.ft.com/content/7f86882f-6cc6-4259-9520-6fa07e9669be)]. Many, like Swedish footballer Kosovare Asllani, have openly criticized the decision, questioning why Sweden would endorse a country with such a checkered past.
**Host:** Asllani has been vocal about her disappointment, saying “You know what I think. I’m not going to run another exposition.” It seems like there’s a deep sense of unease within the football community.
**Guest:** Absolutely. This isn’t just about football. It’s about using sport as a platform for positive change and sending a message that human rights matter. FIFA, despite pulling out of a sponsorship deal with Saudi Arabia for the 2023 Women’s World Cup following public criticism [[1](https://www.ft.com/content/7f86882f-6cc6-4259-9520-6fa07e9669be)], seems to be backtracking on its stance. This sends a confusing message to players, fans, and everyone who cares about human rights.
**Host:** What do you think lies ahead for FIFA and the 2034 World Cup?
**Guest:** It’s unclear. FIFA will likely face continued scrutiny and pressure from human rights groups and concerned individuals. The decision to support Saudi Arabia’s bid could overshadow the tournament, regardless of the outcome.
**Host:** [Guest Name], thank you for sharing your insights on this complex issue. It’s sure to be a hot topic in the coming months and years.
**Guest:** My pleasure.
