Saudi Arabia Set to Drop Plans for 5 Stadiums from 2034 World Cup Project
Saudi Arabia is moving to cancel plans for five of its 2034 World Cup stadiums, a step that comes as spending on megaprojects slows down and contractors are freed up for Expo 2030 construction.
Reports cited by the "Semafor" platform indicated that Saudi Arabia is moving toward canceling plans for five of the stadiums planned for the 2034 World Cup, according to people familiar with the plans.
This move follows a broader slowdown in spending on megaprojects, reshaping implementation priorities across several major development programs in the Kingdom.
This slowdown is expected to free up contractors and resources for Expo 2030 works, meaning execution capabilities will be redistributed among projects rather than halting activity entirely.
Sports Business Journal stated that it observed the same plan, while no official announcement detailing the affected stadiums or modification timelines has been issued yet.
What do these terms mean?
Megaprojects: Massive and costly development projects that include new cities, infrastructure, and major facilities, implemented over several years.
2034 World Cup: The international football tournament hosted by Saudi Arabia, considered one of the largest sporting events in the world in terms of attendance and investments.
Expo 2030: The international exhibition hosted by Riyadh, bringing together countries and companies to showcase technologies and innovations over several months.
Contractors: Companies that execute construction and building works on behalf of the project owner.
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