FA Faces Dilemma: Will They Endorse Saudi Arabia's 2034 World Cup Bid?

**The Ongoing Discussions** Insiders have revealed that discussions within the FA's board are still in progress, indicating that the organization is taking its time to thoroughly assess the ramifications of endorsing Saudi Arabia's bid. The complexity of the situation is heightened by the potential for a non-traditional voting process, where support could be shown through acclamation rather than a formal vote. FIFA has yet to clarify this process, leaving FA officials with questions that could impact their final decision. **Human Rights Concerns** A significant factor in the FA's deliberations is the ongoing scrutiny of Saudi Arabia's human rights record. Reports of human rights abuses and a lack of freedom within the kingdom have raised concerns among various football federations. As the FA weighs its options, it must consider how endorsing the Saudi bid may be perceived in light of these issues. The challenge lies in balancing the desire to support football's global growth with a commitment to human rights. **The Hypocrisy Argument** Complicating matters further is the fear of hypocrisy. Some FA officials are concerned that if they choose not to endorse the Saudi bid, it could be seen as a contradiction if they later participate in the tournament. This raises questions about the FA's integrity and its commitment to ethical practices. The organization must navigate these treacherous waters carefully, as any misstep could lead to significant backlash from both supporters and critics alike. **Joint Ratification Process** Adding another layer of complexity is the joint ratification process for both the 2030 and 2034 World Cups. With Spain, Morocco, and Portugal set to co-host the 2030 event, federations are faced with a unique challenge: if they oppose one bid, they may inadvertently oppose both. This mechanism could pressure federations like the FA to choose the lesser of two evils, further complicating their decision-making process.