A decade after the 2024 Olympics in Paris, the world's biggest sporting event will return to the Middle East. FIFA announced that Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup, marking the second time in recent history the tournament will be held in a region facing scrutiny over human rights issues.

This decision comes just two years after the controversial World Cup in Qatar, where concerns over human rights and migrant worker conditions were widespread. Saudi Arabia was the sole bidder for the 2034 tournament, securing the hosting rights ahead of the October 31, 2023 deadline.

While FIFA President Gianni Infantino has touted the World Cup as a "unique catalyst for positive social change and unity," the selection of Saudi Arabia has ignited a new wave of criticism. Human rights organizations and activists are raising concerns about Saudi labor laws and the potential treatment of workers involved in constructing and upgrading the necessary infrastructure for the 104-game tournament, which will require 15 stadiums, along with hotels and extensive transportation networks.

The decision has been met with skepticism from international rights groups who argue that FIFA hasn't learned from the controversies surrounding Qatar's World Cup preparations. Amnesty International's head of labor rights and sport, Steve Cockburn, called the decision "reckless" and expressed fears for the safety and well-being of workers involved in the extensive construction projects anticipated in the lead-up to the event.

Saudi Arabia's increasing involvement in the sports world, including its financial backing of LIV Golf and the high-profile signing of soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, has drawn significant attention. Ronaldo, who now plays in the Saudi league, expressed his enthusiasm for the 2034 World Cup on social media, predicting it will be the "best ever."

The coming decade will undoubtedly bring intense scrutiny of Saudi Arabia's human rights record and its labor practices as the country prepares to host one of the world’s most-watched sporting events.