Winter World Cup 2034: Saudi Arabia Targets the Calendar, Not Just the Desert Sky
FIFA chief Gianni Infantino hints at a 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia with a winter window, signaling a potential January 2035 kickoff to avoid Ramadan. The Athletic quotes him urging calendar flexibility as the sport expands beyond traditional hosts. The Qatar 2022 model is cited as evidence that winter scheduling can work, though it disrupts European leagues. Saudi’s bid is framed as a testament to organizational strength, while Saudi fans and players push toward 2026 qualification under Hervé Renard, with key contributions from Firas Al-Breikan and a notable red card for Mohammed Kanno.