U.S. Senators Urge FIFA to Reconsider Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup Host

Two U.S. senators have urged FIFA not to choose Saudi Arabia for the 2034 World Cup host due to serious human rights concerns. A letter from Senators Ron Wyden and Dick Durbin highlighted risks for workers and athletes, citing Saudi Arabia’s ongoing human rights violations. They called for a reevaluation of the bid to select a country that respects human rights.

In a recent letter to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Dick Durbin have urged the organization to reconsider its potential selection of Saudi Arabia as the host for the 2034 World Cup. Citing concerns over Saudi Arabia’s human rights practices, the senators emphasized the need for FIFA to choose a host country that respects human rights. They expressed apprehension about the implications of approving the Saudi bid, particularly regarding workers’ rights and the safety of various stakeholders.

The discussion surrounding FIFA’s decision to select a World Cup host country has raised significant concerns, particularly in the context of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. FIFA began a fast-track nomination process for the 2034 event, with Saudi Arabia as the sole candidate since October of last year. This decision has drawn attention due to previous issues related to labor rights during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, alongside ongoing scrutiny of Saudi Arabia’s treatment of dissidents and foreign workers under the Vision 2030 reform initiative led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

The call from Senators Wyden and Durbin underscores critical concerns regarding human rights violations in Saudi Arabia, as FIFA approaches its decision on the 2034 World Cup host. With the upcoming endorsement by FIFA member federations, the senators stress the necessity for thorough reevaluation of the kingdom’s bid to ensure the selected host nation aligns with the principles of human rights and worker protections.

Original Source: apnews.com