The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) welcomed the Saudi Arabian Football Federation’s bid to host the FIFA World Cup 2034, expressing its support for the Kingdom's momentous initiative.
The AFC President, Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, expressed his delight that the SAFF has presented their intention to bid for the FIFA World Cup in 2034.
"The AFC endorses the FIFA World Cup hosting decisions taken by the FIFA Council as we strongly believe it paves the way for a more equitable opportunity for all Confederations to bid for, and host, the prestigious FIFA World Cup – the pinnacle of world men's football," said the AFC President.
He noted that the Asian football family will stand united in support of Saudi Arabia's momentous initiative and is committed to working closely with the global football family to ensure its success.
Saudi Arabia will be hosting the AFC Asian Cup in 2027, and this will be a historic first for them, he noted.
"We have full confidence that the SAFF will deliver an extraordinary AFC Asian Cup and carry this same belief into delivering an unforgettable FIFA World Cup, offering an excellent opportunity to football fans from across the world to experience a unique and spectacular celebration of the beautiful game."
Following FIFA's decisions to revise the hosting mechanism of the FIFA World Cup, Asia will have the opportunity to host the football world's premier competition in 2034 for only the third time in its history, after the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea Republic/Japan and FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
On Wednesday, Saudi Arabia announced its intention to bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
The bid intends to deliver a world-class tournament and will draw inspiration from Saudi Arabia's ongoing social and economic transformation and the country's deep-rooted passion for football.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized that Saudi Arabia's desire to bid for the 2034 FIFA World Cup reflects the country's progress in all sectors.
The Kingdom has quickly emerged as a leading hub and an international destination for hosting major events thanks to its rich cultural heritage, economic strength, and the ambition of its people.
