Saudi Arabia`s Minister of Sport, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal, has announced an investigation into the death of a construction worker at a stadium site for the 2034 World Cup. He stated that local authorities are addressing the matter with utmost seriousness, acknowledging growing concerns about workers` rights in the country.
Muhammad Arshad, a Pakistani foreman in his mid-30s, tragically died on March 12th at the Aramco Stadium construction site in Al Khobar. According to reports, Arshad fell from an elevated section of the site. This is the first reported fatality related to the construction of the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia. While the official hosting announcement was made in December, FIFA`s prior decision in October 2023 had effectively confirmed Saudi Arabia as the host nation.
Prince Al-Faisal emphasized the gravity with which every incident is treated, stating that a thorough investigation is initiated to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences. Speaking before the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, he acknowledged the unfortunate reality of accidents in construction but stressed the commitment to implementing robust safety systems at Aramco Stadium and ensuring such incidents are avoided. He affirmed ongoing supervision with contractors to uphold safety standards and meet global commitments.
Human rights organizations have voiced strong criticism of FIFA`s decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia. Their concerns are particularly focused on the potential impact of construction projects on migrant workers and local communities.
In a joint statement issued in December, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and other groups highlighted evidence of migrant worker exploitation, racial discrimination, suppression of peaceful activists, discrimination against women and LGBTQ+ individuals, and forced evictions for state projects. They warned that without immediate and comprehensive reforms, the 2034 World Cup risks being marred by widespread repression, discrimination, and exploitation.
Following Arshad`s death, concerns have emerged regarding his employer, the Belgian construction firm Besix Group, and their adherence to Saudi labor laws. Reports indicate that Arshad`s family, including his three young children, had not received legally mandated compensation in the days following his death. Furthermore, allegations have surfaced suggesting that workers at the Aramco Stadium were instructed to delete any videos or images related to Arshad`s death and refrain from discussing the incident.
Arshad`s father, Muhammad Bashir, expressed the family`s devastation, highlighting the profound and lasting impact on their lives as Arshad was the sole provider. The family now faces the responsibility of supporting his children`s living and educational expenses.
These concerns about working conditions in Saudi Arabia arise after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where numerous migrant worker deaths occurred during stadium construction. While Qatari officials reported a significantly lower number of work-related deaths, estimates suggest the actual figure could be much higher. A 2021 report estimated over 6,500 worker deaths during Qatar`s World Cup preparations, though the precise number remains disputed.
Prince Al-Faisal claims that Saudi authorities have learned valuable lessons from Qatar`s World Cup experience. He stated that they have engaged in discussions with Qatari officials and FIFA to understand their experiences and implement measures to prioritize worker safety. He emphasized that ensuring worker safety is a top priority and a crucial commitment, particularly given the lessons learned from the impact on Qatar.
FIFA has not yet issued a public statement regarding Arshad`s death.
