Cyberpunk, anyone? Saudi Arabia unveils futuristic sporting arenas for 2034 FIFA World Cup

Looking Ahead: The prospect of the 2034 FIFA World Cup may seem distant, but with Saudi Arabia gearing up to host the event, the future is not as far off as it seems. The country has unveiled plans for state-of-the-art stadiums that resemble something out of a science fiction movie.

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious proposal includes the construction of 11 new soccer stadiums, with the standout being the futuristic Neom Stadium. This cutting-edge arena will be situated in a “smart city” over 350 meters above ground level, boasting a design that pushes the boundaries of imagination.

The stadium’s unique roof, featuring polygonal shapes that mimic shattered glass, will create a mesmerizing mirror-like effect for fans inside. Set to run on renewable energy sources like wind and solar power, the stadium will accommodate 46,000 spectators and is slated for completion by 2032.

The Neom Stadium’s design mirrors the aesthetics of The Line, a revolutionary 106-mile linear city known for its reflective walls, vertical housing system, high-speed rail, and commitment to sustainable energy. However, The Line has faced backlash for its forced relocation of villages and resource-intensive construction process.

These grand plans have sparked allegations of “sportswashing” from human rights activists, accusing Saudi Arabia of using major sporting events to distract from other issues. Similar criticism was raised when the country announced its intention to host the first Olympic Esports Games.

In addition to Neom Stadium, Saudi Arabia is also developing the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, a visually striking three-tiered structure nestled against a cliff and adorned with colored glass and LED screens. While these designs are still in the conceptual stage, the final outcome may deviate significantly from the initial blueprints.

The boldness of these projects and their futuristic designs highlight Saudi Arabia’s ambition to make a global impact through the 2034 FIFA World Cup bid. However, the implementation of these plans will be closely monitored, given the controversies and complexities associated with such large-scale ventures. What seems like fantasy now may soon become reality.