Football Weekly

Why does Saudi Arabia want to host the World Cup? - Football Weekly

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Dec 18, 2024
Lina Al-Hathloul, a Saudi human rights activist championing women's rights, joins journalist Nick Ames to dissect Saudi Arabia's successful bid for the 2034 World Cup. They tackle the economic and political motivations driving the kingdom's ambitions, as well as the ethical concerns surrounding FIFA's decision. Expect a deep dive into the stark contrast between the image of progress Saudi Arabia wants to project and the troubling realities of human rights abuses facing its citizens and migrant workers.
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INSIGHT

Manipulated Bidding Process

  • FIFA manipulated the 2034 World Cup bidding process, ensuring Saudi Arabia's win.
  • They did this by strategically awarding the 2030 World Cup to a joint bid, excluding other potential 2034 contenders.
ANECDOTE

Zoom Meeting Farce

  • The Zoom meeting for the World Cup decision was a parody of due process, with FA heads sometimes participating from their cars.
  • This online format conveniently avoided media scrutiny, highlighting FIFA's preference for opacity.
INSIGHT

Saudi Arabia's Power Play

  • Saudi Arabia's successful World Cup bid reflects their silencing of dissent and control over global narratives.
  • Lina Al-Hathloul highlights the regime's pride in imposing its will, signaling a concerning new era.
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