Mohammad Arshad tragically fell to his death while working on the construction of a stadium for the upcoming 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia, becoming the first known migrant worker fatality linked to the event. Following his death on March 12, 2025, the Belgian construction company Besix, which was responsible for the stadium, assured that it would handle all compensation and insurance payments for Arshad’s family in a respectful and timely manner. However, nearly a year later, the family still reports that they have not received any of the promised financial support.

This incident highlights broader concerns regarding the treatment of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, especially in relation to the massive construction projects associated with international events like the World Cup. Human rights organizations have raised alarms over the potential for thousands of unexplained deaths among migrant workers, reflecting a troubling pattern of labor rights abuses in the country. As Saudi Arabia plans to build numerous new stadiums and improve existing infrastructure for the tournament, the scrutiny on labor conditions and safety measures has intensified.

The ongoing wait for compensation for Arshad's family serves as a grim reminder of the human cost behind such large-scale sporting events. Critics say that despite the spotlight on these high-profile tournaments, there often remains a lack of accountability and transparency regarding worker rights and safety. This situation could lead to increased pressure on FIFA and Saudi officials to address labor rights violations and ensure proper protections for migrant workers in the lead-up to the World Cup.