AFC President: Saudi Arabia is Capable of Hosting World Cup at Right Time

The President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa of Bahrain, expressed confidence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's ability to host the FIFA World Cup. He stated that the bid to host the prestigious tournament in Asia has to be submitted at the "right time" in 2030 or 2034.

In remarks to journalists on the sidelines of his visit to Beirut, Al Khalifa said, "Saudi Arabia is coming strong. We are coordinating with the continental federations and FIFA to host the World Cup in 2030 or 2034 in agreement with everyone. When the bid is submitted, we want to ensure it is at least 90 percent successful."

"The Kingdom can host a similar competition, but we have to choose the right time in 2030 or 2034 according to circumstances and chances of success. We, at the Asian Federation, have 47 votes while winning the right to host World Cup requires 110 votes. We need support from other continents," he said.

"We are coordinating the right time to host the tournament either in 2030 or 2034. We are keen on ensuring success for the Saudi bid," Al Khalifah concluded.

Source: Saudi Press Agency