FIFA has conditionally approved Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup, praising its infrastructure but raising serious concerns about human rights, regional implications, and potential damage to FIFA’s reputation. The decision has sparked intense debate and criticism.
FIFA has announced that it will be revising its transfer regulations following a European Union ruling that deemed parts of the system unlawful. The decision, stemming from a case involving former French player Lassana Diarra, focused on the compensation owed by players who terminate contracts early without a valid reason. FIFA is seeking input from stakeholders to ensure a fair and transparent system moving forward.
Nine years after a World Cup black market tickets investigation began, the case against former FIFA official Jerome Valcke has been closed. The Swiss attorney general’s office announced on Friday that criminal proceedings into an alleged ticket deal for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil had been dropped. This closure comes after other cases against Valcke were also dismissed, although one remains under appeal. The decision brings an end to a long-running investigation that implicated Valcke in a series of FIFA-related scandals.
A landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice on Friday could drastically alter the football transfer system, with potential ramifications for clubs and players worldwide. The case, involving former French midfielder Lassana Diarra, centers on FIFA’s transfer rules and their alleged violation of EU law. The outcome could mirror the groundbreaking Bosman ruling of 1995, which revolutionized player movement in Europe.
FIFA has unveiled the 12 stadiums that will host the expanded Club World Cup in 2025, with the final taking place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The tournament will feature 32 teams and utilize five of the 11 US venues slated for the 2026 World Cup. The announcement was made at the Global Citizen Festival in New York’s Central Park, showcasing the event’s global reach.
The 2024 CONCACAF Gold Cup will not feature any venues on the U.S. East Coast, a move that could signal FIFA’s intention to host games along the Eastern Seaboard for the expanded Club World Cup. The tournament, slated to take place from June 14th to July 6th, will see the addition of three new venues – BC Place in Vancouver, PayPal Park in San Jose, and U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Notably, the absence of East Coast venues aligns with the anticipated location for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, scheduled for June 15th to July 13th.
Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup has sparked debate surrounding human rights, with critics accusing the country of ‘sportswashing’ to improve its image. However, Saudi officials maintain that their bid focuses on economic diversification and societal improvement through Vision 2030, while welcoming all visitors, including LGBTQ individuals, with respect. This article delves into the complexities of Saudi Arabia’s bid, highlighting the human rights concerns raised by Amnesty International and the country’s commitment to hosting a welcoming and inclusive event.
The FIFA Intercontinental Cup is set to make its debut in December 2024, replacing the annual Club World Cup. The tournament will feature five matches, culminating in a final between Real Madrid and the winner of a series of qualifying matches. Get all the details about the exciting new tournament and its format.
Kevin Lamour, a highly regarded executive in European football and UEFA’s deputy general secretary, is moving to FIFA as their new chief operating officer. This move reunites him with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom, with whom he previously collaborated at UEFA. Lamour’s appointment comes amidst a period of relatively smooth relations between FIFA and UEFA.
South Korean midfielder Son Ju-ho’s contract with Suwon FC has been terminated by mutual agreement following his lifetime ban from Chinese football for alleged match-fixing and bribery. Son, who denies the accusations, claims he made a false confession under duress during his detention in China. His future remains uncertain as FIFA is expected to review his case.
