DOHA: Gianni Infantino, president of the International Federation of Association Football, said that Saudi Arabia has become a major hub on the global football stage. 

He praised the dynamic developments in recent years, which have led to a significant international presence and a domestic league with a global flavor, featuring some of the world’s top football stars, most notably Cristiano Ronaldo. 

The league is on track to become one of the top three in the world, he added. 

In an exclusive interview with Asharq Al-Awsat, a sister publication of Arab News, the FIFA president said that the Saudi national team, following its stunning upset against Argentina in the 2022 World Cup, is still capable of repeating such feats, potentially against Spain in the 2026 World Cup. 

He said that Saudi football has made remarkable progress, not only at the senior national team level but also across youth categories. He also pointed out that women’s football in the Kingdom is poised for further growth, thanks to the increasing attention it has received from football authorities in recent years. 

Infantino also expressed personal happiness about Saudi Arabia hosting the 2034 World Cup, describing the Kingdom as a welcoming country with a rich culture, delicious cuisine, and a remarkable people — all of which, he said, will contribute to the success of the major football event.