The Middle East nation is set to be awarded the 2034 finals at an online Fifa Congress on Wednesday
The Premier League and other European top divisions are likely to oppose any attempt to stage a Saudi World Cup in the winter.
Scheduling a World Cup midseason would also likely have a knock-on effect to the seasons either side of the campaign interrupted by the finals. Meanwhile, the Norwegian football federation has criticised Fifa’s “flawed” process which looks set to hand the 2034 finals to Saudi Arabia. Spain, Portugal and Morocco’s 2030 bid had initially been up against a rival South American bid, but an arrangement was made for South America to instead stage the opening three matches of the centenary 2030 finals with Spain, Portugal and Morocco hosting the rest.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Gianni Infantino to avoid spotlight with 2026 World Cup draw held virtuallyControversy remains over decision to give the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia
Read more »
FIFA Accused of 'Astonishing Whitewash' Over Saudi Arabia's 2034 World Cup BidFIFA has been accused of an 'astonishing whitewash' regarding Saudi Arabia's 2034 World Cup bid, despite warnings about human rights violations and environmental concerns. The bid was deemed medium risk on human rights criteria and low risk on sustainability and environmental protection, despite the lack of clarity on playing conditions due to extreme temperatures.
Read more »
Connacht could post a big run in revamped European Challenge CupWe take a in-depth look at Europe's second tier rugby competition and ask, is the new set-up 'far-seeing and revolutionary' or simply Frankenstein?
Read more »
Gary Lineker will leave Match Of The Day at end of the seasonPresenter will step back from highlights programme in 2025, but will cover 2026 World Cup
Read more »
Malta hosted the mother of all parties when Ireland booked a ticket to World CupAll flights at the airport were grounded by fog and 700 fans only left Dublin at 2am on Wednesday morning - the day of the game - having been stranded since 11.30pm on the Monday night.
Read more »
Ireland's World Cup exit to Argentina in 1999 was the darkness before the dawnThere's a strong case to be made for Warren Gatland being the most important coach Ireland ever had because he forced the national team to get to grips with the professional era.
Read more »