Saudi Arabia’s unopposed bid to host the 2034 World Cup means the kingdom will become the second Middle East nation in quick succession to host football’s biggest tournament, after Qatar did so in 2022.

There was controversy over the choice of Saudi Arabia as the host of the 2034 World Cup due to the country's human rights record.

Human rights groups believe Fifa, world football's governing body, has "not learned the lessons" of Qatar's "much-criticised" preparations to host the 2022 World Cup, said Time. As a result, concerns are now growing over who will build the necessary infrastructure, as well as the plight of female and LGBTQ+ football fans.