FIFA has officially announced Saudi Arabia as the host nation for the 2034 men’s football World Cup. Saudi Arabia will become the second nation from the Middle East to host the mega football event, 12 years after neighbours Qatar staged the 2022 edition, where Argentina lifted the prestigious trophy. Meanwhile, the football governing body also confirmed that Spain, Portugal and Morocco will co-host the 2030 edition with one-off matches in three South American countries.

The decision was announced by FIFA President Gianni Infantino following a virtual extraordinary Congress. The 2030 and 2034 World Cups each had only a single bid and both were confirmed by acclamation.

“We are bringing football to more countries and the number of teams has not diluted the quality. It actually enhanced the opportunity,” Infantino said about the 2030 World Cup.