World Cup hosts Qatar will stage the 2023 Asian Cup, the Asian Football Confederation said on Monday, after China withdrew earlier this year because of Covid. "The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) executive committee has today confirmed the Qatar Football Association (QFA) as the host association for the AFC Asian Cup 2023," the Malaysia-based body said in a statement.

China in June 2019 won the bid to host the event but withdrew in May this year because of its "zero-Covid" policy, leaving the AFC scrambling to find a new host for its flagship men's 24-team football tournament.

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The tournament had been due to be held in 10 Chinese cities from June 16 to July 16 next year. China is the last major economy still trying to stamp out Covid-19 within its borders, through a series of harsh measures involving snap lockdowns, mass testing and travel restrictions.

The Asian Cup is staged every four years. Qatar won the tournament’s last edition, in 2019, which was hosted by the United Arab Emirates. South Korea and Indonesia were the other two countries that participated in the bidding to host after China’s withdrawal. Qatar will host the World Cup starting next month.

World Cup hosts Qatar will stage the 2023 Asian Cup, the Asian Football Confederation said on Monday, after China withdrew earlier this year because of Covid. "The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) executive committee has today confirmed the Qatar Football Association (QFA) as the host association for the AFC Asian Cup 2023," the Malaysia-based body said in a statement.

World Cup hosts Qatar will stage the 2023 Asian Cup, the Asian Football Confederation said on Monday, after China withdrew earlier this year because of Covid. "The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) executive committee has today confirmed the Qatar Football Association (QFA) as the host association for the AFC Asian Cup 2023," the Malaysia-based body said in a statement. China in June 2019 won the bid to host the event but withdrew in May this year because of its "zero-Covid" policy, leaving the AFC scrambling to find a new host for its flagship men's 24-team football tournament. ALSO READ | Brazil star Neymar arrives at Barcelona court to face trial on fraud and corruption charges over 2013 transfer The tournament had been due to be held in 10 Chinese cities from June 16 to July 16 next year. China is the last major economy still trying to stamp out Covid-19 within its borders, through a series of harsh measures involving snap lockdowns, mass testing and travel restrictions. The Asian Cup is staged every four years. Qatar won the tournament’s last edition, in 2019, which was hosted by the United Arab Emirates. South Korea and Indonesia were the other two countries that participated in the bidding to host after China’s withdrawal. Qatar will host the World Cup starting next month.

After FIFA World Cup, Qatar to stage 2023 Asian Cup, confirms AFC

India is a sport-loving country. While cricket continues to rule&nbsp;the hearts of many across the nation, many other sports have also risen in popularity in recent years. Football is rising at a rapid pace but still has miles to cover to make an impact globally. The likes of Sunil Chhetri, Indian football captain, goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and the likes have created a strong base, but many of their young followers need to stand tall and help the country's football to make a strong impact worldwide.

Andre Villas-Boas -- football manager and Laureus ambassador -- is one of the youngest top-flight managers who won the Europa League with FC Porto at 33. The game has been associated with him over the years. Recently, he got a chance to interact with underprivileged kids during his three-day visit to India -- and spoke at length&nbsp;on the future of the game in the country during an exclusive interaction with Wion Sports' Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.&nbsp;

After conducting a masterclass for the young small children of Delhi, the former Chelsea manager Andre revealed how his meeting went with the young kids. "Emotionally, it was very very rewarding for me. Hope it was the same for them. I'm thankful for the work done by Slum Soccer for these kids in India. I'm humbled and honoured. In such difficult circumstances they live, without infrastructure, and these 30 kids are still able to enjoy themselves. Put out the best skills they have. Not only technical skills but also&nbsp;cooperation, leadership and communication are some important tools they can take&nbsp;into their future. I thank Slum Soccer once again and Laureus for the work they do. We need more and more&nbsp;to change other people's lives."

During his visit to Delhi, Andre caught up with young football fan Jatin, a goalkeeper for his local football club - Rurka Kalan. Their mutual love for football made them connect instantly and Jatin got a chance to interact with the former Chelsea manager, a moment he will not forget for quite some time.

Jatin earned the chance to meet Andre after winning a unique drawing competition, which featured hundreds of participants from around the world. The young Indian fan's design will now be engraved on the back of the 16th special edition timepiece that Swiss luxury watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has launched in collaboration with Laureus Sport for Good.

“I am really excited to be in India to meet Jatin and the young people from Slum Soccer. It’s wonderful to think that the watch which Jatin helped to design will contribute to raising awareness for Laureus. It was a great honour recognising Jatin as the winner of the competition and we enjoyed talking about football during our time together.

I am also thinking of all the other young people, like Jatin, who are in Laureus programmes around the world, similar to Slum Soccer here in New Delhi, and who are benefiting from the experience. This is a brilliant and unique initiative and I would like to thank Laureus Global Partner IWC sincerely for their support," Andre said about his interaction with the young fan.

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Football is certainly one of the most accessible sports to play. On being asked if he feels&nbsp;Indian football needs that push as, despite the population, India has not reached the levels it should have, Andre&nbsp;pointed out that we need to tap into the talent.

"I think you need a lot of reforms. I know a lot of Portuguese have come here for the stars league that you (India) have proposed. I spoke to them before coming and they told me to make the most of the experience. You need to create a culture. You need to get the football into schools, into kids' heads so that they idolise their heroes and try to emulate them. The Ronaldos and the Messis. But you need the infrastructure and conditions. You guys have enough technical skills, you just need to work on it."

The population of India surely indicates that there is no dearth of talent across any field. Thus, hopes for high for Indian football and the youngsters joining the game to take it to a level that it has never reached as yet.&nbsp;

India is a sport-loving country. While cricket continues to rule the hearts of many across the nation, many other sports have also risen in popularity in recent years.

India is a sport-loving country. While cricket continues to rule the hearts of many across the nation, many other sports have also risen in popularity in recent years. Football is rising at a rapid pace but still has miles to cover to make an impact globally. The likes of Sunil Chhetri, Indian football captain, goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and the likes have created a strong base, but many of their young followers need to stand tall and help the country's football to make a strong impact worldwide. Andre Villas-Boas -- football manager and Laureus ambassador -- is one of the youngest top-flight managers who won the Europa League with FC Porto at 33. The game has been associated with him over the years. Recently, he got a chance to interact with underprivileged kids during his three-day visit to India -- and spoke at length on the future of the game in the country during an exclusive interaction with Wion Sports' Editor Digvijay Singh Deo. After conducting a masterclass for the young small children of Delhi, the former Chelsea manager Andre revealed how his meeting went with the young kids. "Emotionally, it was very very rewarding for me. Hope it was the same for them. I'm thankful for the work done by Slum Soccer for these kids in India. I'm humbled and honoured. In such difficult circumstances they live, without infrastructure, and these 30 kids are still able to enjoy themselves. Put out the best skills they have. Not only technical skills but also cooperation, leadership and communication are some important tools they can take into their future. I thank Slum Soccer once again and Laureus for the work they do. We need more and more to change other people's lives." During his visit to Delhi, Andre caught up with young football fan Jatin, a goalkeeper for his local football club - Rurka Kalan. Their mutual love for football made them connect instantly and Jatin got a chance to interact with the former Chelsea manager, a moment he will not forget for quite some time. Jatin earned the chance to meet Andre after winning a unique drawing competition, which featured hundreds of participants from around the world. The young Indian fan's design will now be engraved on the back of the 16th special edition timepiece that Swiss luxury watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has launched in collaboration with Laureus Sport for Good. “I am really excited to be in India to meet Jatin and the young people from Slum Soccer. It’s wonderful to think that the watch which Jatin helped to design will contribute to raising awareness for Laureus. It was a great honour recognising Jatin as the winner of the competition and we enjoyed talking about football during our time together. I am also thinking of all the other young people, like Jatin, who are in Laureus programmes around the world, similar to Slum Soccer here in New Delhi, and who are benefiting from the experience. This is a brilliant and unique initiative and I would like to thank Laureus Global Partner IWC sincerely for their support," Andre said about his interaction with the young fan. ALSO READ | Manchester United report loss of £115.5m for 2021/22 season Football is certainly one of the most accessible sports to play. On being asked if he feels Indian football needs that push as, despite the population, India has not reached the levels it should have, Andre pointed out that we need to tap into the talent. "I think you need a lot of reforms. I know a lot of Portuguese have come here for the stars league that you (India) have proposed. I spoke to them before coming and they told me to make the most of the experience. You need to create a culture. You need to get the football into schools, into kids' heads so that they idolise their heroes and try to emulate them. The Ronaldos and the Messis. But you need the infrastructure and conditions. You guys have enough technical skills, you just need to work on it." The population of India surely indicates that there is no dearth of talent across any field. Thus, hopes for high for Indian football and the youngsters joining the game to take it to a level that it has never reached as yet.

EXCLUSIVE | You need to get football into schools, says Andre Villas-Boas on the future of Indian football

In a dramatic shootout, Australia beat Peru to clinch their place in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which is set to be held later this year. Playing Peru at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Doha, on June 13, Australia held their nerves in what was a thrilling contest and grabbed their berth for the showpiece event with a 5-4 win in the penalty shootout after the regular time resulted in a 0-0 scoreline.

Thus, both sides were to be tested in the shootouts. While the penalties always put pressure on players but this time around, the crucial slot at Qatar for the finals was also to be determined by virtue of it. Australia's substitute goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the star as he was roped in just minutes before the end of play and finished with two stunning saves to guide his side to the World Cup for the fifth successive time.

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Redmayne danced around the goal line to distract the Peruvians and it worked wonders&nbsp;as Luis Advincila fired a shot against the post whereas Alex Valera's kick got saved. Following the result, a Aussie reporter couldn't manage to keep his calm while being on-air and rejoiced with&nbsp;fans and supporters on the streets. Here's the video of the reporter's reaction as it has gone viral in no time:

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BREAKING🧣 
Tony Armstrong get’s his mum’s hand knitted scarf back. 
Oh, and in other news: Australia to advance to the World Cup over Peru by a score of 5-4, after hours in a sudden death penalty shoot-out.<a href="https://twitter.com/Tonaaayy_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Tonaaayy_</a> <a href="https://t.co/HygD6R4aAs">pic.twitter.com/HygD6R4aAs</a>
— (SCA) SCOTT CHRISTIAN ANDERSON 🇦🇺🇨🇦🇳🇿 (@christianlexus) <a href="https://twitter.com/christianlexus/status/1536465703163019264?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afc-asian-cup-qualifiers-india-afg-players-engage-in-ugly-brawl-after-chhetri-cos-2-1-win-watch-487669">AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers: India, AFG players engage in ugly brawl after Chhetri &amp; Co.'s 2-1 win - WATCH</a>

The reporter rejoiced and almost lost his mother's hand knitted-scarf to a fan as a group of Socceroos' supporters went berserk following their dramatic win. He, however, regained it back amid the plethora of out-of-control fans.

In the 2018&nbsp;FIFA World Cup, Australia lost to France and Peru in the group stage and only managed a draw versus Denmark. How far will they go in the forthcoming edition? Only time will tell...

In a dramatic shootout, Australia beat Peru to clinch their place in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which is set to be held later this year. Playing Peru at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Doha, on June 13, Australia held their nerves in what was a thrilling contest and grabbed their berth for the showpiece event with a 5-4 win in the penalty shootout after the regular time resulted in a 0-0 scoreline.

In a dramatic shootout, Australia beat Peru to clinch their place in the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which is set to be held later this year. Playing Peru at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Doha, on June 13, Australia held their nerves in what was a thrilling contest and grabbed their berth for the showpiece event with a 5-4 win in the penalty shootout after the regular time resulted in a 0-0 scoreline. Thus, both sides were to be tested in the shootouts. While the penalties always put pressure on players but this time around, the crucial slot at Qatar for the finals was also to be determined by virtue of it. Australia's substitute goalkeeper Andrew Redmayne was the star as he was roped in just minutes before the end of play and finished with two stunning saves to guide his side to the World Cup for the fifth successive time. ALSO READ | Australia grabs FIFA World Cup berth after dramatic penalty shootout against Peru Redmayne danced around the goal line to distract the Peruvians and it worked wonders as Luis Advincila fired a shot against the post whereas Alex Valera's kick got saved. Following the result, a Aussie reporter couldn't manage to keep his calm while being on-air and rejoiced with fans and supporters on the streets. Here's the video of the reporter's reaction as it has gone viral in no time: BREAKING🧣 Tony Armstrong get’s his mum’s hand knitted scarf back. Oh, and in other news: Australia to advance to the World Cup over Peru by a score of 5-4, after hours in a sudden death penalty shoot-out.@Tonaaayy_ pic.twitter.com/HygD6R4aAs — (SCA) SCOTT CHRISTIAN ANDERSON 🇦🇺🇨🇦🇳🇿 (@christianlexus) June 13, 2022 × ALSO READ | AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers: India, AFG players engage in ugly brawl after Chhetri & Co.'s 2-1 win - WATCH The reporter rejoiced and almost lost his mother's hand knitted-scarf to a fan as a group of Socceroos' supporters went berserk following their dramatic win. He, however, regained it back amid the plethora of out-of-control fans. In the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Australia lost to France and Peru in the group stage and only managed a draw versus Denmark. How far will they go in the forthcoming edition? Only time will tell...

WATCH: Reporter cannot keep calm after Australia grabs FIFA World Cup berth with win over Peru

The FIFA Referees Committee on Thursday announced the lists with the names of the selected match officials for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.36 referees, 69 assistant referees, and 24 video match officials (VMOs) have been chosen in close cooperation with the six confederations, based on their quality and the performances delivered at FIFA tournaments as well as at other international and domestic competitions in recent years. Among the selected, for the first time in the history of the FIFA World Cup, the FIFA Referees Committee has also appointed three women`s referees and three women`s assistant referees.

"We are very happy that with Stephanie Frappart from France, Salima Mukansanga from Rwanda, and Yoshimi Yamashita from Japan, as well as assistant referees Neuza Back from Brazil, Karen Diaz Medina from Mexico, and Kathryn Nesbitt from the USA, we have been able to call up female match officials for the first time in the history of a FIFA World Cup," said the chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee Pierluigi Collina."

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This concludes a long process that began several years ago with the deployment of female referees at FIFA men`s junior and senior tournaments. In this way, we clearly emphasise that it is quality that counts for us and not gender. I would hope that in the future, the selection of elite women`s match officials for important men`s competitions will be perceived as something normal and no longer as sensational. They deserve to be at the FIFA World Cup™ because they constantly perform at a really high level, and that`s the important factor for us," concluded Pierluigi Collina.

Massimo Busacca, FIFA`s Director of Refereeing, ensures the match officials will receive all the necessary support by FIFA, as their preparation is paramount."Thanks to an innovative tracking and support programme, all the match officials can be supervised by FIFA referees` instructors even more closely and intensively than in previous years. This is a very important factor, from which we expect considerable improvements and progress in view of the FIFA World Cup 2022," explained Busacca. The selected match officials will participate in early summer in several seminars (Asuncion, Madrid and Doha), reviewing and analysing video clips of real match situations, and taking part in practical training sessions with players, which will be filmed to enable participants to receive instant feedback from the instructors.&nbsp;

The FIFA Referees Committee on Thursday announced the lists with the names of the selected match officials for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.36 referees, 69 assistant referees, and 24 video match officials (VMOs) have been chosen in close cooperation with the six confederations, based on their quality and the performances delivered at FIFA tournaments as well as at other international and domestic competitions in recent years.

The FIFA Referees Committee on Thursday announced the lists with the names of the selected match officials for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.36 referees, 69 assistant referees, and 24 video match officials (VMOs) have been chosen in close cooperation with the six confederations, based on their quality and the performances delivered at FIFA tournaments as well as at other international and domestic competitions in recent years. Among the selected, for the first time in the history of the FIFA World Cup, the FIFA Referees Committee has also appointed three women`s referees and three women`s assistant referees. "We are very happy that with Stephanie Frappart from France, Salima Mukansanga from Rwanda, and Yoshimi Yamashita from Japan, as well as assistant referees Neuza Back from Brazil, Karen Diaz Medina from Mexico, and Kathryn Nesbitt from the USA, we have been able to call up female match officials for the first time in the history of a FIFA World Cup," said the chairman of the FIFA Referees Committee Pierluigi Collina." ALSO READ | Rights groups urge FIFA to set aside $440mln for Qatar migrant workers This concludes a long process that began several years ago with the deployment of female referees at FIFA men`s junior and senior tournaments. In this way, we clearly emphasise that it is quality that counts for us and not gender. I would hope that in the future, the selection of elite women`s match officials for important men`s competitions will be perceived as something normal and no longer as sensational. They deserve to be at the FIFA World Cup™ because they constantly perform at a really high level, and that`s the important factor for us," concluded Pierluigi Collina. Massimo Busacca, FIFA`s Director of Refereeing, ensures the match officials will receive all the necessary support by FIFA, as their preparation is paramount."Thanks to an innovative tracking and support programme, all the match officials can be supervised by FIFA referees` instructors even more closely and intensively than in previous years. This is a very important factor, from which we expect considerable improvements and progress in view of the FIFA World Cup 2022," explained Busacca. The selected match officials will participate in early summer in several seminars (Asuncion, Madrid and Doha), reviewing and analysing video clips of real match situations, and taking part in practical training sessions with players, which will be filmed to enable participants to receive instant feedback from the instructors.

Qatar 2022: In a first, women referees to officiate at men's FIFA World Cup

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar will only allow spectators who will be completely vaccinated against COVID-19, Qatar Prime Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani has said.<o:p></o:p>

The Gulf state is in talks to take in one million doses in case global immunisation efforts fall behind, leaving no stones unturned to have a safe and secure World Cup in the year 2022.<o:p></o:p>

Qatar hosts the FIFA World Cup between November 21 and December 18 in 2022 with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, in February, saying that matches will be conducted in full stadiums.<o:p></o:p>

However, Qatar PM said that while most countries are expected to be fully vaccinated by then, Qatar will take complete measures to ensure a successful event. Qatar Legacy Ambassador Ronald de Boer further said that ‘everyone is welcome’ at the 2022 World Cup after protests over human rights issues and questions about the safety of the LGBTQ+ community.

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"We are currently negotiating with a company to provide one&nbsp;million doses of Covid-19 vaccines in order to immunise and vaccinate some of those coming to Qatar," he said.<o:p></o:p>

Qatar officials had earlier said that they were hoping to conduct a Covid-free tournament with vaccinations available for the attendees not already inoculated. Notably, Qatar has administered at least 2.8 million doses, according to a Reuters COVID-19 tracker.<o:p></o:p>

Sheikh Khalid further said that the 2021 Arab Cup, to be hosted in Doha in December, would point on Qatar’s preparedness to host the quadrennial event. He added that most of the stadiums have been completed and the Lusail Stadium, scheduled to host the final of 2022 World Cup, was 90 per cent wrapped up

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar will only allow spectators who will be completely vaccinated against COVID-19, Qatar Prime Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani has said.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar will only allow spectators who will be completely vaccinated against COVID-19, Qatar Prime Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani has said. The Gulf state is in talks to take in one million doses in case global immunisation efforts fall behind, leaving no stones unturned to have a safe and secure World Cup in the year 2022. Qatar hosts the FIFA World Cup between November 21 and December 18 in 2022 with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, in February, saying that matches will be conducted in full stadiums. However, Qatar PM said that while most countries are expected to be fully vaccinated by then, Qatar will take complete measures to ensure a successful event. Qatar Legacy Ambassador Ronald de Boer further said that ‘everyone is welcome’ at the 2022 World Cup after protests over human rights issues and questions about the safety of the LGBTQ+ community. ALSO READ: Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt has twin boys - Thunder and Saint Leo "We are currently negotiating with a company to provide one million doses of Covid-19 vaccines in order to immunise and vaccinate some of those coming to Qatar," he said. Qatar officials had earlier said that they were hoping to conduct a Covid-free tournament with vaccinations available for the attendees not already inoculated. Notably, Qatar has administered at least 2.8 million doses, according to a Reuters COVID-19 tracker. Sheikh Khalid further said that the 2021 Arab Cup, to be hosted in Doha in December, would point on Qatar’s preparedness to host the quadrennial event. He added that most of the stadiums have been completed and the Lusail Stadium, scheduled to host the final of 2022 World Cup, was 90 per cent wrapped up

Football: Only those vaccinated against COVID-19 to be allowed to attend matches in 2022 FIFA World Cup

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups.

Launching a scathing attack on the European Super League, launched by 12 elite European clubs, Ceferin said it is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/european-super-league-explained-what-is-the-format-and-purpose-behind-it-all-you-need-to-know-378604" hreflang="en">European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know</a>

UEFA is ready to fight the breakaway, and said on Sunday that it will "consider all measures available to us, at all levels, both judicial and sporting in order to prevent this happening".

The European Super League has been heavily criticised by football authorities, fan organisations and politicians across Europe who say it entrenches the wealth and power of a small elite of clubs.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/british-media-blast-clubs-leading-european-super-league-breakaway-378596" hreflang="en">British media blast clubs leading European Super League breakaway</a>

The breakaway clubs will be guaranteed annual places in the competition - in contrast to the current UEFA Champions League, which requires teams to qualify via their domestic leagues.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin on Monday announced that players from clubs involved in the breakaway European Super League would be banned from representing their national teams and would not be allowed to take part in UEFA-approved European competitions or FIFA World Cups. Launching a scathing attack on the European Super League, launched by 12 elite European clubs, Ceferin said it is a "disgraceful self-serving proposal from a select few clubs purely fuelled by greed. ALSO READ: European Super League explained: What is the format and purpose behind it? - All you need to know UEFA is ready to fight the breakaway, and said on Sunday that it will "consider all measures available to us, at all levels, both judicial and sporting in order to prevent this happening". The European Super League has been heavily criticised by football authorities, fan organisations and politicians across Europe who say it entrenches the wealth and power of a small elite of clubs. ALSO READ: British media blast clubs leading European Super League breakaway The breakaway clubs will be guaranteed annual places in the competition - in contrast to the current UEFA Champions League, which requires teams to qualify via their domestic leagues.

European Super League players will be banned from Champions League, FIFA World Cup: UEFA president

Qatar is in talks with coronavirus vaccine makers to ensure all fans attending the 2022 World Cup in the country have been vaccinated, the foreign minister said Friday.

The Gulf nation is facing a resurgence of virus cases and deaths despite progress in its mass vaccination programme, forcing authorities to impose a nationwide lockdown.

"We have been negotiating and talking to the vaccination providers on how we can make sure that everyone attending the World Cup is vaccinated," Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said.&nbsp;

"Right now there are programs under development to provide vaccination to all the attendees of the World Cup," he added during the Raisina Dialogue, a virtual event hosted by the Observer Research Foundation.

"We will be able, hopefully, to host a COVID-free event. We also hope that globally the pandemic will start to go down and disappear."&nbsp;

Globally no one vaccine certification system has yet been universally accepted or recognised, though the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Pass has gained popularity amongst Gulf airlines including Qatar Airways.

As of Friday, 194,930 of Qatar's 2.75 million people have tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began, with 21,965 currently active cases -- almost one percent of the population.

Over 26,000 vaccine jabs were administered on Friday, bringing the total to 1,209,648 doses, according to official data.

One in five of the 367 deaths Qatar has suffered since the start of the pandemic has been reported this month with officials blaming the more virulent British variant.&nbsp;

Last week Qatar announced the reimposition of strict lockdown measures, banning most indoor activities except retail and work in an effort to contain the virus.

Qatar has defied soaring coronavirus case numbers to stage several high profile global sporting events in recent months, serving as a test bed for different restrictions but also suffering high-profile infection cases.

The wealthy Gulf nation has bucked the trend of more established sporting nations which have cancelled or postponed a slew of leading events, instead hosting soccer, tennis, motorcycling, judo and beach volleyball since January.

FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has previously said that measures to contain the coronavirus will need to be taken during the 2022 tournament but did not given details.

"Maybe some precautionary measures have to be taken," he told AFP during the FIFA Club World Cup in Doha in February.

As well as saying unspecified distancing measures could still be in place for next year's World Cup, Infantino suggested FIFA could "concretely" help travelling fans from countries with patchy vaccine rollouts.

"We need to see how the situation looks by then. It's very difficult to foresee now.

"It will take a little bit of time, and we have two years of time to come back to some sort of normality."

Qatar is in talks with coronavirus vaccine makers to ensure all fans attending the 2022 World Cup in the country have been vaccinated, the foreign minister said Friday.

Qatar is in talks with coronavirus vaccine makers to ensure all fans attending the 2022 World Cup in the country have been vaccinated, the foreign minister said Friday. The Gulf nation is facing a resurgence of virus cases and deaths despite progress in its mass vaccination programme, forcing authorities to impose a nationwide lockdown. "We have been negotiating and talking to the vaccination providers on how we can make sure that everyone attending the World Cup is vaccinated," Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said. "Right now there are programs under development to provide vaccination to all the attendees of the World Cup," he added during the Raisina Dialogue, a virtual event hosted by the Observer Research Foundation. "We will be able, hopefully, to host a COVID-free event. We also hope that globally the pandemic will start to go down and disappear." Globally no one vaccine certification system has yet been universally accepted or recognised, though the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Travel Pass has gained popularity amongst Gulf airlines including Qatar Airways. As of Friday, 194,930 of Qatar's 2.75 million people have tested positive for the coronavirus since the pandemic began, with 21,965 currently active cases -- almost one percent of the population. Over 26,000 vaccine jabs were administered on Friday, bringing the total to 1,209,648 doses, according to official data. One in five of the 367 deaths Qatar has suffered since the start of the pandemic has been reported this month with officials blaming the more virulent British variant. Last week Qatar announced the reimposition of strict lockdown measures, banning most indoor activities except retail and work in an effort to contain the virus. Qatar has defied soaring coronavirus case numbers to stage several high profile global sporting events in recent months, serving as a test bed for different restrictions but also suffering high-profile infection cases. The wealthy Gulf nation has bucked the trend of more established sporting nations which have cancelled or postponed a slew of leading events, instead hosting soccer, tennis, motorcycling, judo and beach volleyball since January. FIFA boss Gianni Infantino has previously said that measures to contain the coronavirus will need to be taken during the 2022 tournament but did not given details. "Maybe some precautionary measures have to be taken," he told AFP during the FIFA Club World Cup in Doha in February. As well as saying unspecified distancing measures could still be in place for next year's World Cup, Infantino suggested FIFA could "concretely" help travelling fans from countries with patchy vaccine rollouts. "We need to see how the situation looks by then. It's very difficult to foresee now. "It will take a little bit of time, and we have two years of time to come back to some sort of normality."

Qatar seeking virus jabs for all World Cup visitors

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Danish players wore jerseys with the slogan "Football supports CHANGE" as they lined up for a photograph before their World Cup qualifier against Moldova, with the Danish Football Union saying the shirts would be put up for sale and the money given to migrant workers in the Gulf state.

Players from Germany and the Netherlands have also protested in recent days as the European qualifying campaign begins for the 2022 tournament, the hosting of which was controversially awarded a decade ago to Qatar.

Norway players, including superstar striker Erling Braut Haaland, donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' prior to their game in Gibraltar on Wednesday.

Germany players then undertook a similar action before taking on Iceland the next day, lining up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights'.

"We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," said Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka.

"We have a large reach -- and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for."

The Dutch team joined in prior to kick-off in their game against Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday and the movement raises the question of whether players, or national federations, would be prepared to actually boycott the World Cup.

Several Norwegian clubs had already spoken out in favour of a boycott before their national team's action. The Norwegian Football Federation is expected to debate the issue at a special congress in June.

<h2>- Could there be a boycott? -</h2>

"It is 10 years too late for a boycott. We should have thought about that at the time" the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, admitted Bayern and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich.

Indeed Belgium coach Roberto Martinez believes a boycott "is not the solution. That would just be turning our backs on the problem".

Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions.

However, Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare and say they have "always been transparent about the health and safety of workers".

"Since construction began in 2014, there have been three work-related fatalities and 35 non-work-related deaths," a spokesman for Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy claimed in a statement.

Organisers insist a first World Cup in the Arab world has already brought "significant benefits to workers" including improved accommodation facilities and a&nbsp;guarantee to reimburse more than $30 million in illegal recruitment fees to&nbsp;workers.

<h2>- 'Extremely positive' -</h2>

There are contradictions within the protests themselves, with several German internationals playing club football for Bayern, who have a sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways and have regularly visited the country on training camps.

It would be awkward to say the least for any Paris Saint-Germain player to be involved in the various national team protests given the French champions are owned by Qatar.

The movement could nevertheless become especially awkward for FIFA if it continues to spread, although world football's governing body says it will not stop protests.

"FIFA believes in the freedom of speech, and in the power of football as a force for good. No disciplinary proceedings in relation to this matter will be opened by FIFA," it told AFP.

Meanwhile the stance taken by the Norwegians and others has been praised by advocates on the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf.

"It's very commendable of these teams to take a stance and I think they're doing it in a way that's respectful and positive," said Nicholas McGeehan, a researcher at labour rights campaign group Fair Square.

"I think anyone who genuinely cares about the game and the issues these players are raising would agree that what's happening is extremely positive."

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Denmark on Sunday joined Norway and other European national teams in a growing movement protesting against the treatment of migrant workers involved in building venues for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Danish players wore jerseys with the slogan "Football supports CHANGE" as they lined up for a photograph before their World Cup qualifier against Moldova, with the Danish Football Union saying the shirts would be put up for sale and the money given to migrant workers in the Gulf state. Players from Germany and the Netherlands have also protested in recent days as the European qualifying campaign begins for the 2022 tournament, the hosting of which was controversially awarded a decade ago to Qatar. Norway players, including superstar striker Erling Braut Haaland, donned t-shirts with the slogan 'Human rights, on and off the pitch' prior to their game in Gibraltar on Wednesday. Germany players then undertook a similar action before taking on Iceland the next day, lining up in T-shirts which spelled the message 'Human Rights'. "We have the World Cup coming up and there will be discussions about it... we wanted to show we are not ignoring that," said Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka. "We have a large reach -- and we can use it to set an example for the values we want to stand for." The Dutch team joined in prior to kick-off in their game against Latvia in Amsterdam on Saturday and the movement raises the question of whether players, or national federations, would be prepared to actually boycott the World Cup. Several Norwegian clubs had already spoken out in favour of a boycott before their national team's action. The Norwegian Football Federation is expected to debate the issue at a special congress in June. - Could there be a boycott? - "It is 10 years too late for a boycott. We should have thought about that at the time" the World Cup was awarded to Qatar in 2010, admitted Bayern and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich. Indeed Belgium coach Roberto Martinez believes a boycott "is not the solution. That would just be turning our backs on the problem". Qatar has faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers, many of whom are involved in preparations for the World Cup, with campaigners accusing employers of exploitation and forcing labourers to work in dangerous conditions. However, Qatari authorities insist they have done more than any country in the region to improve worker welfare and say they have "always been transparent about the health and safety of workers". "Since construction began in 2014, there have been three work-related fatalities and 35 non-work-related deaths," a spokesman for Qatar's Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy claimed in a statement. Organisers insist a first World Cup in the Arab world has already brought "significant benefits to workers" including improved accommodation facilities and a guarantee to reimburse more than $30 million in illegal recruitment fees to workers. - 'Extremely positive' - There are contradictions within the protests themselves, with several German internationals playing club football for Bayern, who have a sponsorship deal with Qatar Airways and have regularly visited the country on training camps. It would be awkward to say the least for any Paris Saint-Germain player to be involved in the various national team protests given the French champions are owned by Qatar. The movement could nevertheless become especially awkward for FIFA if it continues to spread, although world football's governing body says it will not stop protests. "FIFA believes in the freedom of speech, and in the power of football as a force for good. No disciplinary proceedings in relation to this matter will be opened by FIFA," it told AFP. Meanwhile the stance taken by the Norwegians and others has been praised by advocates on the rights of migrant workers in the Gulf. "It's very commendable of these teams to take a stance and I think they're doing it in a way that's respectful and positive," said Nicholas McGeehan, a researcher at labour rights campaign group Fair Square. "I think anyone who genuinely cares about the game and the issues these players are raising would agree that what's happening is extremely positive."

Qatar human rights protests spread across World Cup qualifiers

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