2034 World Cup Likely To Be Pushed To Early 2035 Due to Ramadan

2034 World Cup Likely To Be Pushed To Early 2035 Due to Ramadan

Sampson Adedeji

The 2034 FIFA World Cup could now be staged at the start of 2035 instead of late 2034, according to reports emerging from FIFA circles, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The tournament, which will be hosted in Saudi Arabia, was originally expected to be held in the winter months similar to the 2022 edition in Qatar to avoid the region’s extreme summer heat.

However, the holy month of Ramadan, which falls between late November and December 2034, has created a significant scheduling conflict.

Sources indicate that FIFA is considering moving the competition to January February 2035, ensuring players and fans can observe Ramadan without disruption while maintaining favorable weather conditions for football.

This adjustment would mark the first time in history a FIFA World Cup extends into a new calendar year.

If confirmed, it would also give domestic leagues and international calendars another reshuffle a challenge FIFA is reportedly already working to resolve with confederations.

An official announcement on the final tournament dates is expected after upcoming discussions between FIFA, the Saudi organizing committee, and key stakeholders.