FIFA has officially confirmed that the 2030 World Cup will be hosted in a unique manner, spanning six countries across three continents. Spain, Portugal, and Morocco have been selected as the co-hosts, with the initial three matches scheduled to take place in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.
This multi-country approach has been chosen to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of the World Cup, harkening back to its inaugural tournament in Montevideo. The decision is awaiting ratification at an upcoming FIFA congress.
In response to this announcement, FIFA also specified that bids for the 2034 World Cup will only be considered from countries belonging to the Asian Football Confederation and the Oceania Football Confederation. Saudi Arabia has already expressed its intention to bid for the 2034 tournament.
FIFA's decision to distribute the tournament across several continents has drawn criticism from some quarters. A supporter's body has accused FIFA of potentially undermining the integrity of the tournament and expressed concerns about its impact on the environment. They argue that hosting the World Cup in multiple locations could pose challenges for fans and contribute to carbon emissions.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the decision, stating that it represents unity in a divided world and a celebration of the World Cup's centenary. The 2030 event will have a global footprint, with matches spread across Africa, Europe, and South America, involving six host nations: Argentina, Morocco, Paraguay, Portugal, Spain, and Uruguay.
Montevideo in Uruguay, where the first-ever World Cup match was played in 1930, is set to host the opening game, followed by matches in Argentina and Paraguay. Subsequently, the remaining matches of the 48-team tournament will be held in North Africa and Europe. If approved, Morocco will become the second African nation to host a World Cup after South Africa in 2010.
Notably, Spain's selection as a joint host comes shortly after the resignation of former football federation chief Luis Rubiales. Rubiales had faced criticism for his actions during the Women's World Cup but denied allegations of misconduct. Spain last hosted the World Cup in 1982.
Portugal, on the other hand, has never hosted a World Cup, although it did host Euro 2004. As part of the co-hosting arrangement, Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Spain, Portugal, and Morocco will all automatically qualify for the tournament.
FIFA's decision to stage the World Cup across multiple continents has raised questions about the organization's commitment to environmental sustainability. Concerns have been voiced regarding FIFA's previous claims of carbon neutrality, particularly in light of environmental impact assessments for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Researchers and activists have expressed doubts about FIFA's ability to deliver a sustainable and climate-friendly tournament of this magnitude. They argue that FIFA should prioritize educating the global community about climate change and actively support the transition to renewable energy.
In response to the decision, Saudi Arabia announced its intention to bid for the 2034 World Cup, aligning with its efforts to establish itself as a prominent sports host nation. Critics have accused Saudi Arabia of using sports events for international image-building, a practice known as "sportswashing."
In an interview, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman dismissed the accusations, emphasizing the economic benefits of hosting such events. FIFA's decision to readmit Russia to its under-17 competitions was also announced, marking a return following the country's suspension after the Ukraine invasion.
The decision stipulates that Russian teams will compete under the name "Football Union of Russia," without their flag or anthem and wearing a neutral kit. This move follows UEFA's similar decision to allow Russian sides to participate in European competitions at the U17 level.
Notably, the English Football Association expressed its lack of support for UEFA's decision, highlighting its stance against playing against Russian teams. UEFA defended its position, emphasizing the importance of conveying messages of peace and hope through football.
Published: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/67010609
Date Published: Friday 6 October 2023
Image courtesy of: NancyEstarotta
