Saudi Arabia has decided to suspend the construction of Neom Stadium, which was introduced as "the most unique stadium in the world" and was considered a key component of the country's plans for the 2034 World Cup. This stadium was part of a larger project called "The Line," designed to create a 170-kilometer-long city in the desert, but it now appears that this project has significantly diminished.
Details of the Neom Project
According to a report from Reuters, Neom Stadium, which was supposed to be built 350 meters above ground with stunning views, will no longer be constructed to host matches of this tournament. The stadium was set to host a quarter-final match and several other games. Experts believe that this decision is a sign of a serious reduction in Saudi Arabia's sports commitments.
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Political and Economic Impacts
Gregory Gause, a Middle East expert, stated: "When I traveled to Saudi Arabia in December, there were many signs that the Neom project had been suspended." He added: "This is part of a broader reassessment of the country's financial situation in the current circumstances, especially considering the state of the oil market and the damages from regional wars." This reassessment also includes a reduction in sports commitments.
Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the head of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, has also recently announced that the fund is evaluating its priorities in light of regional conflicts. These changes in economic and political conditions have affected Saudi Arabia's sports programs.
Predictions for the 2034 World Cup
Despite the suspension of Neom Stadium construction, Gause and other experts believe that Saudi Arabia still values hosting the 2034 World Cup. Gause stated: "This event remains a major priority for Saudi Arabia due to its global significance, and the country wants to be at least as successful as Qatar in hosting this tournament."
Relations between Saudi Arabia and Qatar have improved following an agreement in 2021, but regional rivalries continue. This could assist Saudi Arabia in its efforts to host a high-quality tournament in 2034. Experts predict that most matches will be held in Saudi Arabia's two major cities, Riyadh and Jeddah, while some venues near the eastern coast, such as Al-Khobar or Al-Ahsa, may be set aside.
Saudi Arabia will also host the AFC Asian Cup in January, which is considered a preliminary test to assess the capability of hosting a major tournament under current conditions.
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