Saudi 2034 World Cup: FA chair Debbie Hewitt says it ‘wasn’t a difficult decision’ to back bid
The Football Association’s decision to support Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup was “not difficult”, president Debbie Hewitt said.
Saudi Arabia has Confirmed as host of men’s tournament World football’s governing body FIFA announced the news on Wednesday.
Organizers insist everyone will be welcome, but the country has been criticized for its human rights abuses, infringement of women’s rights and criminalization of homosexuality.
However, Hewitt told BBC Radio 5 Live that the FA asked “a lot of questions” before supporting the bid.
“It wasn’t a difficult decision – I think it was a very thorough process,” Hewitt added.
“We spent a lot of time with the Saudi team to understand their approach to the game.
“We asked a lot of questions, they gave us a lot of time and they gave us a lot of promises and I think it’s important that we will now work with them for the next 10 years before the game to make sure that both parties deliver on those promises.”
this The FA met with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) last month Discuss bidding in more detail. SAFF is committed to providing a safe environment for all fans, including LGBTQ+ supporters, the statement said.
“We feel reassured by the answers we’ve received and feel this is a collaborative effort,” Hewitt said, adding that the FA would provide organizers with “the appropriate group to consult with”.
“The championship is not just about the organizers. The championship is about the people who get involved and play their part, and that’s what we want to do.”
The 2034 World Cup will be held in the Middle East for the second time, and the 2022 World Cup will be held in Qatar.
Saudi Arabia’s international standing was severely damaged by the 2018 killing of U.S.-based Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a prominent critic of the government.
Rodney Dixon KC, a former representative of Khashoggi’s widow Hatice Cengiz, said in a statement that it was disappointing for the FA, which also supports Saudi Arabia. The Scottish and Welsh Football Associations, who bid to host the event, are “just going with the flow” rather than “going with the flow”. Take a stand against violations by oil-producing countries.
“They should reflect on their position and use the time before the 2034 World Cup to press the country to make necessary reforms, or they should join all countries that support universal human rights in taking action to withdraw the World Cup from Saudi Arabia,” Dickson added.
