Saudi Arabia has unveiled their plan to build 11 new stadiums - including one 350 metres above ground level in the unbuilt city of NEOM – as part of its bid to host the 2034 men's World Cup.
The country is aspiring to host the first ever 48-team World Cup tournament across five proposed host cities; Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Abha and NEOM.
In total, eight of the 15 stadiums used will be located in the capital Riyadh, including the brand new 92,000-capacity King Salman Stadium that would host the tournament opener and final.
NEOM, for example, is perhaps the most intriguing of venues. A futuristic city located on the Red Sea, the area is currently under construction but eventually, it will be an 'indoor city' made up of parallel skyscrapers.
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It will also feature a 46,000-capacity stadium that will be built 350 metres above ground, with the city offering high-speed railway networks and advanced, electric forms of transport.
In fact, the venue that will reportedly “run entirely on renewable energy, generated primarily from wind and solar sources” will only be reachable by high speed lifts and driverless vehicles.
"This new stadium will be the most unique in the world," the Saudibid2034 website states.
"With a pitch situated more than 350 meters above ground, and a roof created from the city itself, the stadium will be an experience like no other. After the tournament it will be home to a professional football club and the centerpiece of the city’s sporting and active lifestyle program."
Another notable venue that will be built in Riyadh is the Price Mohammed Bin Salman Stadium; a 45,000-seater stadium that will be built into a cliff edge.
The stadium’s materials, including iridescent glass and shimmering metal, contribute to a futuristic aesthetic. It would be used in the group stage, round of 32, round of 16 and third place play-off.
Jeddah, the second largest city in Saudi Arabia and home to the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, will boast four proposed stadiums, including the Qiddiya Coast arena and its design that evokes the ripple effect of a ‘Mexican wave’.
Saudi Arabia was confirmed as the sole candidate to host the 2034 World Cup last October, after Australia decided against submitting a bid.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal Al Saud, who is Saudi’s minister for sport, has released a statement on their bid.
“Together, we are working towards materialising Saudi Arabia’s dream of hosting the FIFA World Cup into a tangible reality – as outlined within our official bid book," he said.
"These plans will combine our rich football heritage with our deep passion for the game and will ensure Saudi Arabia’s success as the first nation to host a 48-team tournament in one country.”
Topics: Football World Cup, Saudi Arabia
Jack Kenmare