The article explains how Saudi Arabia leveraged its political relationships and regional influence to secure the bid without real competition. FIFA opened the bidding for Asia and Oceania, but Australia withdrew, leaving Saudi Arabia as the only eligible candidate.

The piece examines how Mohammed bin Salman positioned sports, particularly football, as a key tool of “sportswashing” to improve the Kingdom’s global image. It also details investments in stadiums, transport, and hotels — part of broader Vision 2030 reforms.

Critics say the process was orchestrated behind closed doors, and warn that this approach undermines credibility in global football governance.