FIFA announced on Tuesday that Saudi Arabia has emerged as the sole candidate to host the 2034 World Cup, which will be the second World Cup in the Persian Gulf in 12 years.

The World Cup 2034 can be held in Saudi Arabia – Amnesty International calls for respect for human rights

After Australia decided not to bid and FIFA gave them 25 days to express their interest after the deadline was unexpectedly pushed back to 4pm GMT on Tuesday, the prospect of another World Golf Championship for 12 years is nothing more than a formality.

However, the lack of a competitive process and the speed with which the process was carried out raised concerns among human rights groups. Amnesty International has called on FIFA to resign if human rights commitments are not met.

“Human rights obligations must be agreed with potential hosts before final decisions are made on the organization of tournaments,” said Steve Cockburn, Amnesty’s head of economic and social justice, News.ro reported.

“FIFA must now make clear how it expects hosts to comply with its human rights policy. It should also be prepared to halt the tender process if serious human rights risks are not adequately addressed.

FIFA’s best chance to provide binding safeguards to protect workers’ rights, ensure freedom of expression and prevent discrimination related to the World Cup is during the host selection process, not after the hosts have been confirmed and preparations are underway. The tournament has begun.”

Saudi Arabia has until July 2024 to submit a full application. FIFA is due to publish its ratings at the end of next year before taking a confirmation vote in Congress.