Saudi Arabia looking to host 2035 Women’s World Cup
Saudi Arabia wants to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup, says the technical director of the country’s women’s team.
The Gulf kingdom has already lodged a formal bid to host the 2034 men’s World Cup.
“I believe it’s a bright future (for the women’s and girls’ game in Saudi Arabia),” said Monika Staab at the Leaders Week conference at Twickenham.
Saudi Arabia has been accused of human rights abuses and criminalises same-sex relationships.
Saudi Arabia is already in the running to host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2026.
“I told (the sport’s administrators) it takes time to go to the World Cup. I know they want to host the men’s World Cup – why not host the Women’s World Cup in 2035?” said Staab.
“We’re now getting a team ready to be at least competing at that level.”
The Saudi Arabia women’s team were formed in 2022 and have not played in a competitive tournament.
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in sporting events in recent years but has been accused of using events to ‘sportswash’ its reputation.
There are concerns over human rights in the country, women’s rights and the use of the death penalty.
Several high-profile male players, including Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, currently play in the Saudi Pro League.
