Saudi Arabia has been elected host of the 2034 men’s football World Cup, world football’s governing body FIFA announced on Wednesday.

This is coming amid criticism from human rights groups and concerns that the decision by the congress of ruling body FIFA could mean another tournament in the northern hemisphere winter.

At an extraordinary virtual congress, and in the absence of rival bidders, the 211 FIFA members confirmed via one acclamation that Morocco, Portugal and Spain will co-host the 2030 World Cup.

That event will start with three matches in Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay to celebrate a century since the first World Cup 1930 in Uruguay.

All countries presented videos before the vote to showcase their bids, with Portugal great Luis Figo starring in a humorous film for the joint 2030 bid.

Two 13-year-old youth representatives starting the Saudi presentation, and the nation pledged to deliver “a next generation World Cup for a new generation of fans.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino spoke “a historic moment” and added: “Let’s unite the world with football and through football.” (dpa/NAN)