The German Football Association (DFB) has confirmed it will back the bid from Spain, Morocco and Portugal to host the 2030 World Cup and, controversially, the 2034 bid from Saudi Arabia.
FIFA has combined the approval process for both tournaments into one with delegates from member associations due to vote at a virtual congress on Wednesday.
The Saudi bid has caused consternation due to the country’s human rights record and the DFB’s endorsement is unlikely to sit well with German supporters.
In a statement, DFB president Bernd Neuendorf said: “We did not make the decision lightly and carefully examined the application for the 2034 World Cup.
“There was an exchange with many interest groups and experts, including human rights organisations and fans, on the basis of which a well-founded decision was made.
“We take the criticism of the applicant country seriously and will continue to engage in dialogue. Our goal is to work together with FIFA to improve the situation in the coming years.”
