Swedish Football Association Faces Backlash Over Saudi Arabia World Cup Vote
Reinfeldt Says He Knows Importance of LGBTQ+ Issues
The Swedish Football Association (SvFF) recently announced Sweden will be voting ‘yes’ on a bid from Saudi Arabia to host the 2034 World Cup, a move which has sparked criticism.
SvFF chairman Fredrik Reinfeldt defended the decision, explaining that stipulations about respecting human rights and freedoms, including allowing same-sex couples in the stands, be adhered to during the championship.
Magdalena Eriksson.
Photo: SARA DAMNE / BILDBYRÅN
“We have certain requirements regarding openness, respect for human rights and freedoms,” Reinfeldt said.
“Those who do not have one have a constitution that is ours, but still say they are prepared to abide by it so that football can function and thrive. Then I’m okay with it.”
Reinfeldt said he was aware this was a very important issue for a number of people.
“I am well aware that this issue is very important for, for example, Magdalena Eriksson in the women’s national team. I have great respect for her and for those who have been concerned,” Reinfeldt said.
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While Reinfeldt needn’t worry; Eriksson is among those who disagree with the decision.
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“I am very clear on that issue,” Eriksson
Fredrik Reinfeldt.
Photo: SPONSOR／TT / TT NEWS AGENCY
said.
“It is of course nice that you are respected for the opinions you have and that you have been heard, because
She continued: “Then I still do not agree with the yes vote. It’s not something I personally would have voted for. It simply has to stand for the association.”
Eriksson is not alone in expressing disapproval.
“It does not send good signals when we have had players who have been out and marked and then we have a federation that takes a different path. There will be a split between the federation and the players,” expressed Nathalie Björn, a player for the
What are the potential benefits of Saudi Arabia hosting the World Cup?
## Interview: SvFF’s World Cup Vote Sparks Controversy
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. The decision by the Swedish Football Association to support Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup bid has ignited a firestorm of criticism. Joining us now to discuss this controversial decision is Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert on sports governance and human rights. Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us.
**Dr. Sharma:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** The SvFF chairman, Fredrik Reinfeldt, claims they will require Saudi Arabia to uphold human rights during the tournament, including ensuring same-sex couples are welcome in the stands. Do you think these stipulations are achievable given Saudi Arabia’s current laws and social climate?
**Dr. Sharma:** That’s the crux of the issue, isn’t it? While it’s commendable that the SvFF is attempting to raise these concerns, Saudi Arabia has a well-documented history of human rights violations, particularly against LGBTQ+ individuals. It’s difficult to imagine how temporary stipulations during a sporting event could meaningfully change the deeply ingrained discriminatory laws and social attitudes.
**Host:** Critics argue that awarding the World Cup to Saudi Arabia would effectively be endorsing these human rights abuses. How do you respond to that?
**Dr. Sharma:** It’s a valid concern. Awarding such a prestigious event to a country with such a poor human rights record sends a dangerous message – that economic and political considerations outweigh basic human dignity. It risks normalizing these abuses and potentially emboldening the Saudi regime.
**Host:** On the other hand, some argue that hosting the World Cup could be an opportunity to promote positive change in Saudi Arabia by prompting dialogue and reform. Do you see any merit in that argument?
**Dr. Sharma:** I understand that perspective, and there’s certainly precedent for major events sparking social progress. However, simply hosting an event doesn’t guarantee these outcomes. Real change requires sustained effort, systemic reforms, and a genuine commitment from the host country. It’s crucial to remember that the World Cup is a football tournament, not a development project or a human rights intervention.
**Host:** Dr. Sharma, thank you for sharing your insightful analysis on this complex and sensitive issue.
**Dr. Sharma:** My pleasure.
Let me know if you’d like me to explore any specific aspects of this topic in more detail!