Saudi Arabia has expressed its desire to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup, as revealed by the technical director of the country’s women’s team, Monika Staab. This aspiration comes as the Gulf kingdom has already submitted a formal bid to host the 2034 men’s World Cup.
While the prospect of hosting the Women’s World Cup signals potential progress in women’s and girls’ football in Saudi Arabia, there are concerns surrounding human rights and gender equality in the country. Saudi Arabia has faced accusations of human rights abuses, and same-sex sexual activity remains illegal.
Notably, the country’s bid to sponsor the 2023 Women’s World Cup faced criticism, with many women’s football players openly opposing it due to concerns over women’s rights in the nation.
Saudi Arabia is also in contention to host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in 2026, further emphasizing their growing interest in women’s football. However, it remains to be seen whether the bid will materialize amid international scrutiny.
