FIFA disrupts club calendar again. 2034 World Cup to be held in winter

Saudi Arabia, the leading candidate to host the 2034 World Cup, is already causing FIFA headaches—and not just due to public criticism.

Details: According to the Daily Mail, the tournament will follow the example of Qatar 2022 by being held mid-season rather than during the summer. However, unlike Qatar, where extreme weather was the primary factor, there are additional reasons for the scheduling shift in Saudi Arabia.

The World Cup in Qatar took place in November and December, but the Saudi-hosted tournament is planned for January 2034. This adjustment is due to Ramadan, a significant religious observance for Muslims, which falls at the end of the year. FIFA aims to avoid scheduling conflicts with the holy month.

Additionally, the 2034 Winter Olympics are set to begin in February in Salt Lake City, prompting FIFA to ensure the World Cup concludes before the Olympics commence.

Reminder: FIFA previously addressed concerns regarding potential human rights violations in Saudi Arabia as part of the public discourse surrounding the event.