Cristiano Ronaldo was at the forefront of the celebrations after it was confirmed on Wednesday that Portugal, alongside five other nations, will host the men’s World Cup in 2030. The renowned player described this upcoming tournament as potentially the “most special” edition in the event’s history.

The 2030 World Cup marks a significant milestone as it will be the first tournament to take place across six different countries, with Spain, Portugal, and Morocco as the primary organizers. In addition, the tournament will include games hosted by South American countries Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. This arrangement is particularly fitting as it coincides with the centennial celebration of the inaugural World Cup, which was held in Uruguay in 1930.

Ronaldo, who is known for being the only player to have scored in five World Cup tournaments, shared his excitement in an Instagram post, expressing that this is a “dream come true.” He included a celebratory photo of himself dressed in Portugal’s kit, along with the caption: “The Most Special World Cup ever.” Although the 39-year-old superstar might not be active as a player in 2030, he expressed optimism about Portugal’s role in the event, saying, “Portugal will host the 2030 World Cup and make us proud.”

The endorsement of the six-nation bid during FIFA’s online meeting was largely seen as a formality. Additionally, it was confirmed that Saudi Arabia will host the World Cup in 2034. Reactions to this announcement were relatively subdued in Spain and Portugal, while the South American football governing body, CONMEBOL, expressed joy over the decision. Alejandro Domínguez, president of CONMEBOL, stated that this day would be remembered as a significant occasion in South American football history.

He emphasized that FIFA’s choice reflects a tribute to history, noting, “The World Cup returns home.” Dominguez pointed out that Uruguay is the birthplace of the first-ever World Cup, and now Argentina, the most recent champion, adds to the continent’s rich football legacy. “We are at home, on the continent that organized the first World Cup ever,” he declared during a press gathering at CONMEBOL’s headquarters in Paraguay.