Saudi Arabia has unveiled plans for 11 new soccer stadiums as part of its ambitious bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. Among these, the Neom Stadium stands out with its futuristic design, reminiscent of something out of a video game. This innovative stadium is set to be located within Neom, the country’s smart city project, at an impressive height of over 350 meters (383 yards) above ground.
The Neom Stadium’s design is striking, featuring a roof composed of polygonal shapes that create a mirrored effect above the seating area, giving it a beehive-like appearance. This stadium will accommodate 46,000 spectators and will be powered entirely by renewable energy sources, primarily wind and solar. By 2032, the construction is expected to be finished.
The stadium’s design is in line with the aesthetic of The Line, Neom’s 106-mile-long linear city project. The Line is characterized by its reflective walls, vertical housing system, high-speed rail, and commitment to 100% renewable energy. However, The Line has faced significant criticism, including allegations of using lethal force to clear villages in its path and concerns about the substantial resources required for its construction.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia has faced accusations of “sportswashing,” where a government uses major sporting events like the World Cup to improve its global image and gain positive media coverage. This strategy has also been criticized in relation to Saudi Arabia’s plans to host the first Olympic Esports Games.
Another notable stadium in the plan is the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, which features a unique design built into the side of a cliff, surrounded by colored glass and LED screens. While these designs are currently just renders, the actual constructions may vary once completed.
The ambitious stadium projects reflect Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to modernize and diversify its economy, part of its Vision 2030 initiative. Despite the controversies, the country’s push to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup represents a significant step in its strategy to become a major player on the global sports stage.
