The FIFA World Cup will be the rebirth of a spirit as well as a magnificent instance of unity in diversities evident from the global population interested in a similar program, such as football. There has been lots of debate stirred by Saudi Arabia’s decision to host the tournament in 2034, one of which is that Saudi Arabia puts too much emphasis on luxury, a quality that would not appeal to the average football fan.
The FIFA World Cup: A Global Celebration
The World Cup is not only about football anymore; it is about life. From football games, basketball, baseball, and soccer fields to streets, every part of America has representation of the common attendees of the event from all levels of income. Standing must be applied additionally as a mandatory option to guarantee football is a game for all.
Saudi Arabia’s approach, focusing heavily on luxury, raises questions about its suitability as a host. The country’s significant investments in opulent hotels, exclusive venues, and high-end experiences risk sidelining the average fan, whose passion fuels the sport’s global appeal.
Lavish Stadiums and Amenities
Saudi Arabia will construct ultra-modern stadiums and their related accommodations with a focus on lavishness and comfort. However, these initiatives do represent the financial muscles of this country, which could instead promote elite viewership as opposed to ordinary viewers. VIP boxes, expensive tickets, and special amenities will surely be the highlights of a stadium, which would subsequently minimize affordable tickets. The average cost for fans attending the FIFA World Cup, including tickets, travel, and lodging, is estimated at $4,000–$8,000, with luxury-focused venues potentially inflating this by 30–50%.
Luxurious Accommodation
The major concern in the context of this paper is that the delivery of tourism and hospitality services in Saudi Arabia concentrates on luxurious hotels and resorts, and private villas. This could make people forget about affordable ways the average fan could use to get to the World Cup.
Transportation Exclusivity
The country’s designs for high-speed trains, car services that are premium, and luxury shuttles all appear to favor the better-off travelers. But such a thing raises questions regarding the feasibility and affordability of public transport for fans who are not so well-endowed. Efficient but fair transport is the key for a World Cup to go off smoothly, with the fans traveling around the cities without making a hole in their pocket.
Increasing Expense of Being There
Attending a World Cup already incurs huge expenses for tickets, travel, and lodging. Saudi Arabia’s luxury model risks hiking it even higher, putting it out of reach for ordinary fans. For an event aimed at all strata and classes, this move alienates huge chunks of football consumers.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices could also be pushed up by luxury features and exclusive facilities at the stadiums. While FIFA normally calls for a variety of tickets, the overall luxurious ambiance may raise the baseline cost, which might deter those fans from developing countries or those who cannot afford a ticket. Tickets for the final match will be pricey, costing approximately AUD 2,399, representing a 46% increase compared to the previous World Cup.
Community Alienation
There is still this very pleasant bond of shared experiences; however, the budget hotels or crowded public squares or street parades—an environment largely dominated by luxury—could probably stifle this communal spirit and bring in an atmosphere that feels impersonal and elitist.
Exclusion of Fans from the Locale
In host countries, locals are often the backbone of the fan experience, invigorating the event. Price out Saudi Arabia’s own middle- and lower-class citizenry, and it might end up with a lifeless, disconnected tournament—the very opposite of the authentic energy usually found at World Cups.
Lessons from Past Tournaments
South Africa 2010
The 2010 World Cup in South Africa: It was a perfect blend of world-class facilities and local flavor. The event, therefore, managed to welcome people from all walks of life while maintaining luxury and accessibility. This was an unforgettable celebration of culture and football.
Brazil 2014
Despite the challenges, Brazil was able to capture the essence of football by making it affordable and inclusive. Fans from all over the world enjoyed the opportunity to mingle with the local communities, something that Saudi Arabia’s luxury model may not be able to achieve.
