🔻Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia has put on hold indefinitely the plan to build the $2.5 billion Neom stadium—one of the 2034 World Cup venues. The 46,000-seat stadium was supposed to be built as part of the massive “The Line” project, which is no longer a priority for Saudi Arabia.

🔹According to Reuters, Saudi Arabia is building or renovating 15 stadiums for the 2034 World Cup in five cities. Based on data from “Meed Projects,” the combined value of these projects is $22.7 billion, and the Neom stadium is now in a “stalled” status.

🔹Two sources familiar with the matter said the decision was made after delays and a downsizing of the future-facing project in which the stadium was to be built.

🔹However, the High Commission for Hosting the 2034 World Cup said “significant progress” has been achieved in the construction stages related to the tournament.

🔹According to Reuters, the other stadiums are at different stages of development and are expected to be completed between 2026 and 2033. The Aramco Stadium in the city of Al Khobar in eastern Saudi Arabia is expected to be completed by the end of this year and host its first match in January.