Ukraine, the Baltic states, Poland, and the countries of Northern Europe are considering a joint bid to host the 2038 FIFA World Cup. The International Federation of Football Associations is currently analyzing the prospects for forming a regional candidacy. This is reported by Sportacentrs.com, details are also provided by Sports.tvnet.lv.
The Latvian Ministry of Economy noted that, given the trend towards holding major sports tournaments in the format of international partnerships, the department is assessing the possibility of creating a joint regional bid with the participation of the Baltic countries, Poland, Ukraine and the countries of Northern Europe.
It is also reported that the ministers of economy of these countries are planned to be invited to an online meeting on March 2 to discuss a potential model of cooperation and the prerequisites for forming a joint candidacy for the 2038 tournament.
The ministry emphasized that, in accordance with FIFA practice, the selection of host countries begins approximately eight years before the start of the competition. It is expected that the application process for the 2038 World Cup may begin approximately in 2030 after the official announcement of the selection procedure and criteria.
Usually, among the main requirements is the availability of stadiums of appropriate capacity. A tournament with 48 teams requires several arenas with a capacity of approximately 40,000 seats, and stadiums with a capacity of 60,000–80,000 spectators for the semi-finals and final.
In addition, candidate countries must ensure a developed transport infrastructure, a sufficient number of hotels and accommodation, compliance with security, logistics and commercial requirements, as well as provide state guarantees and mechanisms for interstate cooperation in the event of a regional application.
Previously, Ukraine was also considered among the possible candidates for hosting the 2030 World Cup.
