Egypt has formally requested to host select group-stage matches during the 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia, the president of the Egyptian Football Association announced Wednesday.
Speaking at the 14th CAF Extraordinary General Assembly in Cairo, Hany Abo Rida expressed support for Saudi Arabia’s role as host while appealing to FIFA for Egypt’s inclusion.
He called on FIFA President Gianni Infantino to grant Egypt and Africa the “honor” of organizing a World Cup group.
The 2034 tournament coincides with the 100th anniversary of Egypt’s historic participation in the 1934 World Cup, when it became the first African nation to compete on football’s grandest stage.
Saudi Arabia, the sole bidder, was officially confirmed as host by FIFA in December.
It will be the third Arab country to organize the tournament, following Qatar in 2022 and Morocco in 2030, which will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
Egypt previously sought to host the 2034 World Cup and was part of an unsuccessful bid alongside Saudi Arabia and Greece for the 2030 edition.
FIFA has not yet responded to Egypt’s request.