Saudi Arabia Says Did Not Request to Host Football World Cup

Saudi Arabia has not submitted a request to host the FIFA World Cup. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Arabia has not submitted a request to host the FIFA World Cup. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
TT
20

Saudi Arabia Says Did Not Request to Host Football World Cup

Saudi Arabia has not submitted a request to host the FIFA World Cup. (Asharq Al-Awsat)
Saudi Arabia has not submitted a request to host the FIFA World Cup. (Asharq Al-Awsat)

The Saudi Ministry of Tourism reiterated on Wednesday that the Kingdom had not submitted an official request to host the FIFA World Cup.

In a tweet, it said Saudi Arabia is always keen on hosting major sports events as part of its efforts to promote sports and internal tourism in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.

Minister of Sports Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Faisal had told CNN last week that his country had no intention at the moment to host the World Cup in 2030.

He added that the Kingdom was focused on bidding to host the 2026 Women's Asian Cup and the men’s Asian Cup 2027.

He said Saudi Arabia has already won the right to host the 2034 Asian Games and attention is now centered on preparing stadiums and infrastructure to host the event.



Qiddiya Named Founding Partner of the Formula 1® stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2025

Qiddiya Named Founding Partner of the Formula 1® stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2025
TT
20

Qiddiya Named Founding Partner of the Formula 1® stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2025

Qiddiya Named Founding Partner of the Formula 1® stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2025

Saudi Motorsport Company, the promoter of the Formula 1® stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2025, has announced a strategic partnership with Qiddiya Investment Company, one of the flagship initiatives of the Public Investment Fund. Under this agreement, Qiddiya becomes a Founding Partner of the 2025 edition of the Formula 1® stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, SPA reported.
This collaboration builds on Qiddiya Investment Company’s strong relationship with the Grand Prix and underscores its unwavering commitment to championing Saudi Arabia’s cultural identity on the global stage. As a Founding Partner, Qiddiya will support the continued growth of the Kingdom’s entertainment, sports, and cultural sectors—delivering world-class experiences that inspire both local communities and international audiences.
Commenting on the announcement, CEO of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation Khalid Al-Suwaidan said: “We are proud to expand our partnership with Qiddiya Investment Company. Their involvement will help unlock the full potential of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit – the fastest street circuit in the world – and further solidify Saudi Arabia’s position on the global motorsport map.”
“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional sporting experiences on a global scale. We are confident it will pave the way for continued achievements, embedding sport more deeply into everyday life while enhancing the Kingdom’s image on the international stage,” Al-Suwaidan added.
Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company Abdullah AlDawood said: “We are proud to be a Founding Partner of the Formula 1® stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2025, one of the most prestigious events on the global sporting calendar. This partnership reflects Qiddiya’s commitment to bringing world-class experiences to the Kingdom and supporting the continued growth of motorsport in Saudi Arabia. As we develop Qiddiya City into the future capital of Entertainment, Sports, and Culture, initiatives like this play a key role in shaping a vibrant and dynamic future for our youth and reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position on the world stage.”