If you think that politics have no influence on FIFA-s selection process for World Cup locations, think again. Just remember back to the most recent World Cup in South Africa, where critics and commentators questioned the suitability and safety of the venue right up to the starting kick-off. FIFA tends to choose locations for the World Cup that are politically stable and considered safe for tourists. This makes the dream of hosting the World Cup virtually unattainable for many developing countries. Even though these countries could benefit from the increased tourism and economic activity that would come with any World Cup, they are often passed over for more politically and economically stable countries.
Gaining the home-field advantage can also play a role within the selection of the World Cup location. Countries with more political clout within FIFA try to draw the World Cup to their home turf, where they will be assured of a built-in cheering section for their team. This can put teams from developing countries at a decided disadvantage. While fans from wealthy countries can afford to travel to watch the matches, most fans from developing countries cannot afford the often prohibitive costs of attending the games abroad.