Human rights groups have highlighted the 'unimaginable human cost' associated with Saudi Arabia hosting the 2034 World Cup.

Why Fifa awarding Saudi Arabia the 2034 World Cup is so controversial?

Split image. Left image: Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman. Right image: A close-up view of the Fifa World Cup trophy.

FIFA's decision to select Saudi Arabia as the host for the 2034 World Cup has faced criticism from human rights campaign groups.

Saudi Arabia officially announced as 2034 World Cup host

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer speaks to the media after his arrival in Abu Dhabi for his visit to United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Cyprus

The Prime Minister insisted his “international agenda starts at home” as he visits the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia on Monday.

North of England to benefit from further Saudi trade, Starmer says

Over 100 female professional footballers have banded together to pen an open letter begging Fifa to end its partnership with Saudi oil and gas group Aramco.

Over 100 women footballers urge Fifa to drop partnership with Saudi-run firm

A delegation from Newcastle pitched the city as the “gateway to Saudi", raising concerns amongst human rights campaigners.

Saudi human rights activists ask to meet council over NUFC 'sportswashing' fears

A statement said 83% of those who died were “unauthorised to perform Hajj” and “walked long distances under direct sunlight, without adequate shelter".

More than 1,300 people died on Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi officials say

Muslim pilgrims use umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun during the Hajj.

Almost two million Muslims performed the Hajj in 2024, with many struggling beneath the scorching heat.

Hundreds of Hajj pilgrims suspected dead as Mecca temperatures exceed 50C

Several countries have begun confirming the deaths of their nationals as sweltering heat hits the annual religious journey attended by millions.

At least 550 Muslims reported dead at Hajj as 50C temps hit pilgrimage to Mecca

Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden has been joined by Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch and Culture Secretary Lucy Frazer for the summit in Riyadh.

Government champions £3billion Saudi Arabian North East investment

MMA fighter Francis Ngannou, right, falls during his fight with British former world champion Anthony Joshua, of the heavyweight boxing showdown at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Saturday, March 9, 2024. (AP Photo)

The former heavyweight champion dominated his matchup with the ex-UFC heavyweight champ at Kingdom Arena in Saudi Arabia. 

Anthony Joshua knocks out Francis Ngannou in second round in Riyadh

File photo dated 08-09-2022 of British teenager Oliver Bearman, who will be handed his Formula One debut as a last-minute stand-in for Ferrari's Carlos Sainz at this weekend's Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Issue date: Friday March 8, 2024.
Credit: PA



Ollie Bearman, 18, will deputise for Ferrari's Carlos Sainz at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix on Sunday after the Spaniard pulled out with appendicitis.

British teenager handed F1 debut as Ferrari star falls ill

Argentina celebrate winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Were Saudi Arabia to be named as World Cup hosts, it would likely spark controversy over concerns about the Kingdom's human rights record.

Saudi Arabia poised to host 2034 World Cup after Australia withdraws bid

St James' Park, home of Newcastle united.

Human rights activist Lina al-Hathloul will be at the city’s Northern Stage theatre at the invitation of NUFC Fans Against Sportswashing.

Human rights activist to speak on ‘sportswashing’ at Newcastle fans’ forum

Guards used explosive weapons and fired people at close range "in a pattern that is widespread and systemic", Human Rights Watch said.

Hundreds of migrants killed by Saudi Arabian border guards, rights group says

The two leaders spoke on Thursday, as No 10 faced criticism over a potential visit by the Gulf state leader later this year.

Saudi Arabia

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