Saudi Arabia is now on track to host the 2034 World Cup after Australia officially withdrew its bid to host the tournament.
This decision came on the final day for submissions set by FIFA, which had called for bids from Asia and Oceania by October 31.
Football Australia (FA) initially expressed interest in the 2034 bid, but later shifted its focus towards hosting the 2026 Women’s Asian Cup and the 2029 Club World Cup.
Following this, Saudi Arabia emerged as the only confirmed bidder, having promptly announced its intention to bid shortly after FIFA’s call for bids on October 4.
The president of the Asian Football Confederation expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia’s bid, emphasizing the united support of the entire Asian football community.
Indonesia initially explored a joint bid with Australia, Malaysia, and Singapore, but ultimately rallied behind Saudi Arabia’s candidacy a week later.
“We believe we are in a strong position to host the oldest women’s international competition in the world – the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 – and then welcome the greatest teams in world football for the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup,” FA said.
“Achieving this … would represent a truly golden decade for Australian football.”
