9:15 pm today

FIFA 2034 already attracting sportswashing claims

From Nights, 9:15 pm today

Saudi Arabia is set to host the 2034 FIFA Men's World Cup, but the decision has sparked accusations of "sportswashing" from critics who point to the country's human rights record.

But do sporting bodies and more importantly sports fans care?

The Saudis are already a major player in the international sports scene, with involvement in golf, Premier League Football, Formula One and heavyweight boxing - to name just a few.

Nights sports expert RNZ reporter Jamie Wall joins the show to discuss the issue.

This pool photograph distributed by Russian state agency Sputnik shows Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman attending a meeting with Russia's President in Riyadh on December 6, 2023. (Photo by Sergei SAVOSTYANOV / POOL / AFP)

Photo: AFP / SERGEI SAVOSTYANOV