FIFA last week published its bid evaluation reports for the 2034 World Cup. Make that a singular ‘report,’ because there was only one bid — from the oil-rich monarchy, Saudi Arabia, a country governed by Sharia (Islamic Law) at the decree of its king.

FIFA has given the country a generous 4.2 rating, out of 5. Based on the governing body’s assessment of stadiums (including eight still in the planning phase), transportation and accommodation, it believes that the Gulf state is fit to host. The report also does not shy away from the issue of human rights. It does not reference human rights violations, though, rather it talks about “human rights risks.” Is FIFA talking about the risk of human rights abuse, or the risk that such abuse poses to the staging of its lucrative tournament?

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