Neymar Voices Support for Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup hosting Bid
As anticipation builds for the 2034 FIFA World Cup, Saudi Arabia has already won the backing of one of football’s biggest stars. Neymar, the Brazilian forward currently playing for Al-Hilal, expressed his enthusiasm for Saudi Arabia’s role as the host nation in a video shared by his club during the country’s National Day celebrations.
“I’m really happy for the country,” Neymar said. “I think Saudi Arabia deserves this recognition and the opportunity to host a World Cup. It will give people around the world a chance to discover the culture here, and I believe it will be a great experience for everyone involved.”
Saudi Arabia’s selection as host for the 25th World Cup in November 2023 came after a series of withdrawals from other contenders, including Australia, China, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.
Though not officially announced by FIFA, the kingdom’s bid seems all but secured.
Neymar, who made his move to the Saudi Pro League in 2023 following his stint at Paris Saint-Germain, has been sidelined since mid-October after suffering a torn ACL in his left knee.
His arrival in Saudi Arabia, much like the country’s World Cup hosting ambitions, is part of a broader strategy to increase Saudi influence on the global stage through sports and cultural initiatives, as part of its “soft power” approach.
With Saudi Arabia gearing up to welcome the footballing world in 2034, Neymar’s endorsement only adds to the mounting excitement for what promises to be a historic event for the nation.
