Alan Baldwin , in JEDDAH – Despite scarcely engaging with rugby, Saudi Arabia, which will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, might consider entering a bid for the 2035 Rugby World Cup.
When meeting with reporters at the edge of Sunday's illuminated Formula One Grand Prix in Jeddah, Sports Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal did not dismiss the possibility.
He stated, 'We have an interest in rugby and want to promote the sport locally. Therefore, we established a federation to explore how we can contribute to its development.'
I believe we aren’t quite ready for hosting just yet, but with ‘35 being only a decade away, perhaps it could develop in that direction. If there’s significant interest by then, why not consider it?
According to The Times newspaper report from last month, Saudi Arabia might team up with Qatar, which organized the 2022 FIFA World Cup, along with the United Arab Emirates, to submit a combined bid for either 2035 or 2039.
The statement cited Asia Rugby President Qais Al Dhalai, who is from the UAE, suggesting this might occur.
"A multi-host could be a successful story and a new model for rugby. UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia. Why not? The stadiums are ready there. It will be the most successful event in the history of rugby," he said.