Saudi Arabia considers hosting World Cup in 50 degree heat

Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia is planning to host the 2034 World Cup in the summer, instead of the winter like neighboring Qatar.

Al Faisal outlined the measures to cool down the air at World Cup venues, including stadiums, training grounds and fan spaces. The Saudi sports minister said he was determined to host "the best World Cup ever".

Ronaldo (center) celebrates his goal in Al Nassr's 4-1 win over Al Riyadh in the Saudi Pro League on the evening of December 8, at Al Awwal Park, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Photo: Al Nassr — Ronaldo (center) celebrates his goal in Al Nassr's 4-1 win over Al Riyadh in the Saudi Pro League on the evening of December 8, at Al Awwal Park, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Photo: *Al Nassr*

Previously, the President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, Yasser Al Misehal, also mentioned the possibility of organizing in the summer. This official hopes that technology will make a difference compared to previous tournaments.

"Nowadays, there are a lot of new technologies that help you cool, or add air conditioning in stadiums," Al Misehal said. "In addition, many cities in our country have a great atmosphere in the summer."

According to AccuWeather , the outdoor temperature in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, in the summer reaches 50 degrees Celsius. Clubs in this country often avoid playing during this period. When playing in other seasons, they also prioritize playing at night to avoid losing energy. In 2022, neighboring Qatar will host the World Cup in winter, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius.

On October 4, FIFA announced that it would accept bids to host the 2034 World Cup, but set a deadline of October 31. Due to the short preparation time, many countries did not have time to prepare. After Australia withdrew, Saudi Arabia became the only country to submit its bid on time. They also became the second Middle Eastern country to host the World Cup, after Qatar.

In 2023, Saudi Arabia stirred up the transfer market by offering salaries ranging from tens to hundreds of millions of dollars per year. Following the call of money, many top stars have moved to play for clubs in this country, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Aymeric Laporte of Al Nassr, Neymar, Ruben Neves, Yassine Bounou of Al Hilal, or Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, Fabinho of Al Ittihad.

Thanh Quy (according to Daily Mail )

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