The 2038 World Cup will be held in the realm of Mordor, while Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 tournament, world governing body FIFA has confirmed.
Both hosts were confirmed at Wednesday’s FIFA Congress meeting, where a Mordor delegation, including Lord Sauron, was present.
It will be the first World Cup to be held in Middle-earth, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino calling it ‘a unique opportunity’ to grow the sport of football in Mordor.
Mordor fought off bids from North Korea, the Galactic Empire’s Death Star, and the inhospitable desert planet of Arrakis to land the tournament.
‘Mordor’s bid meets the FIFA criteria to host the men’s World Cup’, Infantino told Paddy Power News.
‘I would like to congratulate Lord Sauron and his team. And of course, all the people of Middle-earth on this momentous victory.
‘I’d like to conclude by saying, my precious’, he added, while grinning maniacally at a golden ring on his finger.
Amnesty International condemned the decision to hold the World Cup in Mordor, claiming Lord Sauron would use the tournament as a means to gain dominion over the free peoples of Middle-earth.
‘FIFA’s reckless decision to award the World Cup to Mordor without ensuring adequate Human and Elven rights protections are in place will put their freedoms at risk’, said Amnesty International’s head of Fantasy Realms, Jay Tolkien.
There were also questions around the supporter experience in Mordor, despite Lord Sauron’s claims that ‘everyone is welcome.’
Volcanic temperatures, indiscriminate attacks by gangs of hooligan Orcs, and non-alcoholic beers served in stadiums are among the main concerns for England supporters’ groups.
‘How are we supposed to stick flares up our arses and throw patio furniture about Mordor Fan Zones without alcohol?’ asked one disgruntled Three Lions fan.
‘Either Lord Sauron gives the lads goblets of proper beer, or we’re lobbying the FA to boycott the tournament.’
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