I'm currently consulting on a monumental project in KSA, closely tied to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ambitious bid to host the 2034 World Cup. This endeavor, far surpassing the Kingdom's billion-dollar investment in the PGA Tour, aims to transform Saudi Arabia into a global sports powerhouse. The scale of this undertaking is staggering, especially considering the $225 billion Qatar spent for the 2022 World Cup.
The journey to this point has been intriguing. FIFA's decision to expedite the bidding process for the 2034 Cup raised eyebrows, especially as it moved up the host announcement to next year, a significant deviation from the original plan. Within moments of this news, MBS declared Saudi Arabia's readiness to invest whatever it takes in this venture. This bold move saw Australia, a potential competitor, step back from the financial race. However, winning the bid is just the beginning for MBS and Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom must now brace for a challenging journey ahead, balancing its aspirations with the scrutiny it faces over human rights concerns. Critics and organizations like Human Rights Watch are vocal about the deteriorating human rights situation under MBS's rule, highlighting issues such as mass executions and the treatment of migrant workers.
The situation is complex and layered. As we move forward with this project, we're not just focusing on the immense infrastructure required but also on the critical need for a comprehensive PR strategy. This strategy must address global concerns and present Saudi Arabia's vision in a manner that resonates positively worldwide. The Kingdom has 11 years to prepare, not only for the World Cup but also to respond to and engage with the critical voices shaping its international image.
As a consultant, my role involves navigating these multifaceted challenges, balancing ambitious development with global perception. The road to 2034 is long, and the eyes of the world are watching. How Saudi Arabia responds and evolves in this period will be crucial, not just for the success of the World Cup, but for its standing on the global stage.
#WorldCup2034 #SaudiVision #GlobalSports #PublicRelations #HumanRights 🌍⚽🏆🇸🇦
Founder. Branding. Sports. Youth Initiatives @Humanitarian - "Victory comes from finding opportunities in problems." ― Sun Tzu
3wMatt Wilson - When do we get started? #culture #youthsports #communities #globally #football #play