The FIFA World Cup is just 4 days away. Any idea how much money Qatar has spent to host the games? Upwards of $230 Billion. Priyanka Sharma brings you a report on the money that goes into these games.

Gravitas | Qatar 2022: The money going into the games

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway on November 20 in Qatar. Ahead of the World Cup, a lot of updates from Qatar have made the headlines. On Thursday (November 17), a new development has come forward that Lionel Messi and his Argentina team mates have said no to five-star luxury and will lodge at student halls at the Qatar University, Doha. They have done so to enjoy the traditional beef barbecues during the showpiece event in the Middle East.

While players from other teams checked-in in city's expensive hotels, Messi and his teammates have headed straight to the student halls of the Qatar University, as per a report in Daily Mail. It is to be noted that the decision was taken after the Argentine football officials came to a conclusion that living in student halls will enable them to organise mouth-watering asados, traditional barbecues, etc. In addition, a&nbsp;special asado chef will be available for the players&nbsp;to ensure that beef and other preferred meals are cooked as it would be in Argentina.

'We want to make them feel at home while they are in Qatar'

In this regard, a source from the Argentina Football Association told Mail Online, "We visited the campus several times and chose it because not only does it have great facilities but it also has open air space for asados. This is very important to the players and Argentines in general, it’s part of our culture. We want to make them feel at home while they are in Qatar and the best way to do this is to make sure that they get a taste of home while focusing on the football."

He added: "You could say other teams have opted to stay in more luxurious accommodation but our team is the best in the world which also deserves the best beef. Our focus is to win the World Cup, not the quality of the hotel we are staying in."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wait-what-female-fans-in-qatar-might-find-themselves-in-jail-if-not-dressed-properly-during-fifa-world-cup-534824">Wait, what? Female fans in Qatar might find themselves in jail if not dressed properly during FIFA World Cup</a>

Argentina will begin their campaign in the forthcoming Qatar World Cup versus Saudi Arabia on November 22 (Tuesday). They are placed in Group C along with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland.&nbsp;

<h2 id="argentina-world-cup-squad-0">Argentina World Cup 2022 Final Squad</h2>

Emiliano Martinez, Franco Armani,&nbsp;Nahuel Molina,&nbsp;Gonzalo Montiel,&nbsp;German Pezzella,&nbsp;Nicolas Otamendi,&nbsp;Cristian Romero,&nbsp;Lisandro Martinez,&nbsp;Nicolas Tagliafico, Marcos Acuna, Juan Foyth,&nbsp;Guido Rodriguez, Rodrigo De Paul, Exequiel Palacios,&nbsp;Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Alejandro Gomez,&nbsp;Leandro Paredes,&nbsp;Lionel Messi (c),&nbsp; Nicolas Gonzalez, Lautaro Martinez, Paulo Dybala, Julian Alvarez, Joaquin Correa, Angel Di Maria

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway on November 20 in Qatar. Ahead of the World Cup, a lot of updates from Qatar have made the headlines. On Thursday (November 17), a new development has come forward that Lionel Messi and his Argentina team mates have said no to five-star luxury and will lodge at student halls at the Qatar University, Doha.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway on November 20 in Qatar. Ahead of the World Cup, a lot of updates from Qatar have made the headlines. On Thursday (November 17), a new development has come forward that Lionel Messi and his Argentina team mates have said no to five-star luxury and will lodge at student halls at the Qatar University, Doha. They have done so to enjoy the traditional beef barbecues during the showpiece event in the Middle East. While players from other teams checked-in in city's expensive hotels, Messi and his teammates have headed straight to the student halls of the Qatar University, as per a report in Daily Mail. It is to be noted that the decision was taken after the Argentine football officials came to a conclusion that living in student halls will enable them to organise mouth-watering asados, traditional barbecues, etc. In addition, a special asado chef will be available for the players to ensure that beef and other preferred meals are cooked as it would be in Argentina. 'We want to make them feel at home while they are in Qatar' In this regard, a source from the Argentina Football Association told Mail Online, "We visited the campus several times and chose it because not only does it have great facilities but it also has open air space for asados. This is very important to the players and Argentines in general, it’s part of our culture. We want to make them feel at home while they are in Qatar and the best way to do this is to make sure that they get a taste of home while focusing on the football." He added: "You could say other teams have opted to stay in more luxurious accommodation but our team is the best in the world which also deserves the best beef. Our focus is to win the World Cup, not the quality of the hotel we are staying in." Also read: Wait, what? Female fans in Qatar might find themselves in jail if not dressed properly during FIFA World Cup Argentina will begin their campaign in the forthcoming Qatar World Cup versus Saudi Arabia on November 22 (Tuesday). They are placed in Group C along with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland. Argentina World Cup 2022 Final Squad Emiliano Martinez, Franco Armani, Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, German Pezzella, Nicolas Otamendi, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Marcos Acuna, Juan Foyth, Guido Rodriguez, Rodrigo De Paul, Exequiel Palacios, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Alejandro Gomez, Leandro Paredes, Lionel Messi (c), Nicolas Gonzalez, Lautaro Martinez, Paulo Dybala, Julian Alvarez, Joaquin Correa, Angel Di Maria

FIFA WC: Messi & Co. say no to five-star luxury for student halls to relish traditional beef barbecues

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway in Qatar on November 20. Before all the action begins on the field, a lot of controversies have emerged in the run-up to the showpiece event. From a lot being said and written about the human rights violation in Qatar to a Danish reporter very recently being threatened by Qatari officials, a lot of drama has unfolded with regard to the mega tournament.

Ahead of Qatar 2022, another update has made heads turn. Female fans, coming from other countries, have been advised to dress properly and not wear anything that is too revealing during the upcoming FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;If any female fan fails to comply with this,&nbsp;she can be in big trouble and land herself&nbsp;in jail. It is to be noted that the laws in Qatar ban women from wearing tight clothes and showing their body parts in public. It falls under&nbsp;a punishable offence.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-qatar-officials-threaten-reporter-on-live-tv-apologise-after-video-goes-viral-watch-534783">FIFA World Cup: Qatar officials threaten reporter on live TV, apologise after video goes viral - WATCH</a>

The FIFA website, on the other hand,&nbsp;stated&nbsp;that women can wear anything they like but will have to keep in mind the strict laws of Qatar.&nbsp;"People can generally wear their clothing of choice. Visitors are expected to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting public places like museums and other government buildings," the World Cup website states.

Meanwhile, the&nbsp;Chief technology officer of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar Niyas Abdulrahiman pointed out, "We have high-resolution special cameras to zoom in on a particular seat and clearly see the spectator. It’s being recorded, so that will help us in any post-event investigation."

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The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway in Qatar on November 20. Before all the action begins on the field, a lot of controversies have emerged in the run-up to the showpiece event.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is set to get underway in Qatar on November 20. Before all the action begins on the field, a lot of controversies have emerged in the run-up to the showpiece event. From a lot being said and written about the human rights violation in Qatar to a Danish reporter very recently being threatened by Qatari officials, a lot of drama has unfolded with regard to the mega tournament. Ahead of Qatar 2022, another update has made heads turn. Female fans, coming from other countries, have been advised to dress properly and not wear anything that is too revealing during the upcoming FIFA World Cup. If any female fan fails to comply with this, she can be in big trouble and land herself in jail. It is to be noted that the laws in Qatar ban women from wearing tight clothes and showing their body parts in public. It falls under a punishable offence. Also read: FIFA World Cup: Qatar officials threaten reporter on live TV, apologise after video goes viral - WATCH The FIFA website, on the other hand, stated that women can wear anything they like but will have to keep in mind the strict laws of Qatar. "People can generally wear their clothing of choice. Visitors are expected to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting public places like museums and other government buildings," the World Cup website states. Meanwhile, the Chief technology officer of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar Niyas Abdulrahiman pointed out, "We have high-resolution special cameras to zoom in on a particular seat and clearly see the spectator. It’s being recorded, so that will help us in any post-event investigation." ×

Wait, what? Female fans in Qatar might find themselves in jail if not dressed properly during FIFA World Cup

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, is set to get underway in a few days. The World Cup is keenly awaited but a lot of negative publicity has happened due to the work culture and strict rules&nbsp;in Qatar. Ahead of the tournament's opener, on November 20, a big controversy erupted when a Danish reporter's live TV broadcast was interrupted by Qatar officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The security guard approached the reporter named Rasmus Tantholdt on a golf buggy, located close to Chedi Hotel at Katara Cultural Village. In a video that has gone viral in no time on social media platforms,&nbsp;Tantholdt's live recording had got hampered by the interruption of&nbsp;security officials. The member displayed his accreditation and accused the Qatari officials of wanting to break the camera set.&nbsp;

In the clip, the reporter can be heard saying, "You invited the whole world here. Why can't we film?".&nbsp;&nbsp;Here's the viral video:

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— world cup out of context (@unluckyfootie) <a href="https://twitter.com/unluckyfootie/status/1592818477433499651?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-brazil-to-france-listing-winners-of-past-five-editions-of-the-fifa-world-cup-533336">From Brazil to France: Listing winners of past five editions of the FIFA World Cup</a>

"Upon inspection of the crew's valid tournament accreditation and filming permit, an apology was made to the broadcaster by on-site security before the crew resumed their activity. Tournament organisers have since spoken to the journalist and issued an advisory to all entities to respect the filming permits in place for the tournament," the Supreme Committee's statement read.

Prior to the Qatar World Cup's commencement, former FIFA President Sepp Blatter had accepted that awarding World Cup rights to Qatar -- which has a history of human rights violations -- was a mistake.&nbsp;

"It is too small of a country. Football and the World Cup are too big for it," Blatter told Swiss newspaper Tages Anzeiger, as per Reuters. "It was a bad choice. And I was responsible for that as president at the time," he added.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, is set to get underway in a few days. The World Cup is keenly awaited but a lot of negative publicity has happened due to the work culture and strict rules in Qatar.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, is set to get underway in a few days. The World Cup is keenly awaited but a lot of negative publicity has happened due to the work culture and strict rules in Qatar. Ahead of the tournament's opener, on November 20, a big controversy erupted when a Danish reporter's live TV broadcast was interrupted by Qatar officials. The security guard approached the reporter named Rasmus Tantholdt on a golf buggy, located close to Chedi Hotel at Katara Cultural Village. In a video that has gone viral in no time on social media platforms, Tantholdt's live recording had got hampered by the interruption of security officials. The member displayed his accreditation and accused the Qatari officials of wanting to break the camera set. In the clip, the reporter can be heard saying, "You invited the whole world here. Why can't we film?". Here's the viral video: pic.twitter.com/ODgE3m06YI — world cup out of context (@unluckyfootie) November 16, 2022 × Also read: From Brazil to France: Listing winners of past five editions of the FIFA World Cup "Upon inspection of the crew's valid tournament accreditation and filming permit, an apology was made to the broadcaster by on-site security before the crew resumed their activity. Tournament organisers have since spoken to the journalist and issued an advisory to all entities to respect the filming permits in place for the tournament," the Supreme Committee's statement read. Prior to the Qatar World Cup's commencement, former FIFA President Sepp Blatter had accepted that awarding World Cup rights to Qatar -- which has a history of human rights violations -- was a mistake. "It is too small of a country. Football and the World Cup are too big for it," Blatter told Swiss newspaper Tages Anzeiger, as per Reuters. "It was a bad choice. And I was responsible for that as president at the time," he added.

FIFA World Cup: Qatar officials threaten reporter on live TV, apologise after video goes viral - WATCH

As the FIFA World Cup 2022 fever kicks in, airports in Dubai are gearing up for a huge influx of passengers. Qatar Airways and flydubai will operate up to 120 match-day shuttle flights to ensure everyone is able to enjoy the FIFA tournament which is set to begin from November 20, without hassle.&nbsp;

The match-day shuttle flights from Al Maktoum International Airport also known as Dubai World Central (DWC) to Doha International Airport for FIFA World Cup will start next week.

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The shuttle flights will fly in and out of DWC everyday between November 20 and December 19, shuttling football fans to Doha and back to Dubai. However, Dubai Airports, which&nbsp;owns and manages the operation and development of both airports Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC),&nbsp;said that the baggage allowance for passengers is only limited to hand luggage and no checked luggage is allowed.&nbsp;

“It is mandatory for travellers to hold a valid match ticket and the Hayya Card to board match day shuttle flights. The baggage allowance for passengers using the shuttle service is limited to hand luggage as per their class of travel, and no checked luggage will be accepted except wheelchairs and strollers,” according to Dubai Airports.

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The Dubai-based low-cost carrier plans as many as 30 round-trip flights a day during the World Cup. To cater the skyrocketing surge in demand, flydubai and Qatar Airways will also be operating chartered flights. Chartered flight operator such as DC Aviation Al Futtaim registered a spike in requests for private jets to Doha.&nbsp;

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Dubai Airports is also mooting stepping up its front line team to ensure smooth experience for the passengers. “More than 60 check-in counters, 21 boarding gates, 60 passport control counters (departures and arrivals) and 10 smart gates, and four baggage belts on arrivals will be operational throughout the period to cope with the anticipated surge in demand,”&nbsp;said Dubai Airports.

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As the FIFA World Cup 2022 fever kicks in, airports in Dubai are gearing up for a huge influx of passengers. Qatar Airways and flydubai will operate up to 120 match-day shuttle flights to ensure everyone is able to enjoy the FIFA tournament which is set to begin from November 20, without hassle.

As the FIFA World Cup 2022 fever kicks in, airports in Dubai are gearing up for a huge influx of passengers. Qatar Airways and flydubai will operate up to 120 match-day shuttle flights to ensure everyone is able to enjoy the FIFA tournament which is set to begin from November 20, without hassle. The match-day shuttle flights from Al Maktoum International Airport also known as Dubai World Central (DWC) to Doha International Airport for FIFA World Cup will start next week. ALSO READ | Dua Lipa rubbishes rumours of being a part of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 The shuttle flights will fly in and out of DWC everyday between November 20 and December 19, shuttling football fans to Doha and back to Dubai. However, Dubai Airports, which owns and manages the operation and development of both airports Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC), said that the baggage allowance for passengers is only limited to hand luggage and no checked luggage is allowed. “It is mandatory for travellers to hold a valid match ticket and the Hayya Card to board match day shuttle flights. The baggage allowance for passengers using the shuttle service is limited to hand luggage as per their class of travel, and no checked luggage will be accepted except wheelchairs and strollers,” according to Dubai Airports. ALSO READ | Manchester United shares official statement after explosive interview by Cristiano Ronaldo The Dubai-based low-cost carrier plans as many as 30 round-trip flights a day during the World Cup. To cater the skyrocketing surge in demand, flydubai and Qatar Airways will also be operating chartered flights. Chartered flight operator such as DC Aviation Al Futtaim registered a spike in requests for private jets to Doha. WATCH | Twitter CEO Elon Musk delays blue tick relaunch till November 29 Dubai Airports is also mooting stepping up its front line team to ensure smooth experience for the passengers. “More than 60 check-in counters, 21 boarding gates, 60 passport control counters (departures and arrivals) and 10 smart gates, and four baggage belts on arrivals will be operational throughout the period to cope with the anticipated surge in demand,” said Dubai Airports. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Qatar Airways, flydubai to operate up to 120 daily shuttle flights between Dubai and Doha

Eintracht Frankfurt striker Randal Kolo Muani will replace RB Leipzig's&nbsp;Christopher&nbsp;Nkunku&nbsp;in the France squad for the World Cup in Qatar, the French federation (FFF) said on Wednesday. Nkunku&nbsp;was ruled out of the tournament after leaving Tuesday's training session early with a left knee injury. A video circulating on social media showed&nbsp;Nkunku&nbsp;clash with team mate Eduardo Camavinga.

Kolo Muani, 23, has made 23 appearances for Frankfurt in all competitions this season, scoring eight goals and recording 11 assists. He made his first two senior appearances for France in September's Nations League games against Austria and Denmark.

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"The Eintracht Frankfurt striker, currently in Japan with his club, will join the French team in Doha on Thursday morning," the FFF said in a statement. France will be in Group D in Qatar with Australia, Denmark and Tunisia. They start their campaign against Australia on Nov. 22 at the Al Janoub Stadium.

Eintracht Frankfurt striker Randal Kolo Muani will replace RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku in the France squad for the World Cup in Qatar, the French federation (FFF) said on Wednesday.

Eintracht Frankfurt striker Randal Kolo Muani will replace RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku in the France squad for the World Cup in Qatar, the French federation (FFF) said on Wednesday. Nkunku was ruled out of the tournament after leaving Tuesday's training session early with a left knee injury. A video circulating on social media showed Nkunku clash with team mate Eduardo Camavinga. Kolo Muani, 23, has made 23 appearances for Frankfurt in all competitions this season, scoring eight goals and recording 11 assists. He made his first two senior appearances for France in September's Nations League games against Austria and Denmark. Also read: Luxury yachts and 'real VIPs' as Dubai readies for FIFA World Cup 2022 "The Eintracht Frankfurt striker, currently in Japan with his club, will join the French team in Doha on Thursday morning," the FFF said in a statement. France will be in Group D in Qatar with Australia, Denmark and Tunisia. They start their campaign against Australia on Nov. 22 at the Al Janoub Stadium.

FIFA World Cup: Kolo Muani replaces injured Christopher Nkunku in France's squad

IN PICS | Preparations in Qatar for FIFA World Cup as final countdown begins

Manchester United midfielder and Portugal international Bruno Fernandes was delighted with his side's 2-1 win over Fulham on Sunday but less so with the timing of the World Cup, which begins next weekend in Qatar, necessitating a six-week Premier League break.

The 28-year-old told Sky Sports that the timing of the tournament, which usually takes place in June and July but has been shifted to the cooler temperatures of December in Qatar, was off-putting for players and fans alike.

"Of course it's strange, It's not exactly the time we want to be playing in the World Cup. I think for everyone, players and fans, it's not the best time. Kids will be at school, people will be working and the timings will not be the best for people to watch the games," he said.

The decision to award the tournament to Qatar has provoked widespread criticism, with concerns expressed over labour laws and human rights in the country.

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"We know the surroundings of the World Cup, what has been in the past few weeks, past few months, about the people that have died on the construction of the stadiums. We are not happy about that at all," Fernandes said, flanked by team mate and Denmark international Christian Eriksen.

"We want football to be for everyone, everyone has to be included and involved in a World Cup because a World Cup is for the world. It's for everyone, it doesn't matter who."

Eriksen echoed the sentiments of Fernandes but said that players had a limited ability to influence political decision.

"It starts and it's football, no matter where it is. It's football, we qualified and we'll play," the Dane said.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-felt-betrayed-cristiano-ronaldo-accuses-manchester-united-of-betrayal-says-officials-want-him-out-533846">&nbsp;'I felt betrayed': Cristiano Ronaldo accuses Manchester United of betrayal, says officials want him out&nbsp;</a>

"A lot has been written, there's a lot of focus on how it's happened and why it's in Qatar. I don't agree with how it's happened but we're footballers and we play football. Change has to come from somewhere else," he added.

The Premier League resumes on Dec. 26.

Manchester United midfielder and Portugal international Bruno Fernandes was delighted with his side's 2-1 win over Fulham on Sunday but less so with the timing of the World Cup, which begins next weekend in Qatar, necessitating a six-week Premier League break.

Manchester United midfielder and Portugal international Bruno Fernandes was delighted with his side's 2-1 win over Fulham on Sunday but less so with the timing of the World Cup, which begins next weekend in Qatar, necessitating a six-week Premier League break. The 28-year-old told Sky Sports that the timing of the tournament, which usually takes place in June and July but has been shifted to the cooler temperatures of December in Qatar, was off-putting for players and fans alike. "Of course it's strange, It's not exactly the time we want to be playing in the World Cup. I think for everyone, players and fans, it's not the best time. Kids will be at school, people will be working and the timings will not be the best for people to watch the games," he said. The decision to award the tournament to Qatar has provoked widespread criticism, with concerns expressed over labour laws and human rights in the country. Also Read: 'I don't have respect for him': Cristiano Ronaldo slams Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag "We know the surroundings of the World Cup, what has been in the past few weeks, past few months, about the people that have died on the construction of the stadiums. We are not happy about that at all," Fernandes said, flanked by team mate and Denmark international Christian Eriksen. "We want football to be for everyone, everyone has to be included and involved in a World Cup because a World Cup is for the world. It's for everyone, it doesn't matter who." Eriksen echoed the sentiments of Fernandes but said that players had a limited ability to influence political decision. "It starts and it's football, no matter where it is. It's football, we qualified and we'll play," the Dane said. Also Read: 'I felt betrayed': Cristiano Ronaldo accuses Manchester United of betrayal, says officials want him out "A lot has been written, there's a lot of focus on how it's happened and why it's in Qatar. I don't agree with how it's happened but we're footballers and we play football. Change has to come from somewhere else," he added. The Premier League resumes on Dec. 26.

Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes questions decision to stage FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar

A comment by a Qatari World Cup ambassador sparked a row. LGBTQ+ fans are worried about their safety in the host nation, where homosexuality is punishable by death.

The West Asia Post | LGBTQ+ football fans worried about safety in Qatar

Eight former officers in the Indian Navy were arrested in Qatar on suspicion of spying for Israel, although Qatari officials have refused to state the charges against the suspects despite their being in custody for over 70 days.

8 Indians allegedly spying for Israel arrested in Qatar

From Brazil to France: Listing winners of past five editions of the FIFA World Cup

Israelis and the Palestinian fans will now be able to fly together to attend the FIFA World Cup via a special chartered flights. The global sporting body FIFA has announced that the operation of these chartered flights will be between Tel Aviv and Doha.

Qatar World Cup 2022: Israeli fans attend FIFA World Cup

Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has admitted it was a 'mistake' to award the 2022 World Cup hosting rights to Qatar. Blatter was the FIFA president back in 2010 when Qatar managed to win the hosting right for the tournament despite USA being favourites to stage the showpiece event this year.

Qatar has been at the center of criticism from all corners for its infamous history of human rights violations. The country has been accused of mistreating and forcing migrant labours&nbsp;to work in inhumane conditions during the construction of stadiums for the 2022 FIFA World Cup which is set to get underway from November 20 this year.

Blatter, who was the eighth president of the world football's governing body FIFA, remained in charge for 17 years from 1998 to 2015. It was during his stint at the top that Qatar won the hosting rights. The former FIFA president has now admitted it was a 'bad choice' and said that World Cup is too big an event for a small country like Qatar.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-world-cup-ambassador-shares-take-on-homosexuality-says-it-is-damage-in-the-mind-532189">Qatar World Cup ambassador shares take on homosexuality, says it is 'damage in the mind'</a>

"It is too small of a country. Football and the World Cup are too big for it," Blatter told Swiss newspaper Tages Anzeiger, as per Reuters.

"It was a bad choice. And I was responsible for that as president at the time," he added.

Qatar has faced criticism from several current and former players and coaches over human rights violations in the country. Recently pub owners in Germany, which houses one of the biggest football fan bases in the world, announced that they will boycott the upcoming World Cup.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dani-alves-makes-the-cut-roberto-firmino-left-out-as-brazil-announce-squad-for-fifa-world-cup-2022-532006">Dani Alves makes the cut, Roberto Firmino left out as Brazil announce squad for FIFA World Cup 2022</a>

Blatter said FIFA amended the criteria for the selection of World Cup hosts in 2012 after serious accusations of human rights violations agaist Qatar. FIFA also took into account the accusations against Qatar over the poor working conditions for labours at tournaent-related working sites.

"Since then, social considerations and human rights are taken into account," said Blatter, who was accused of corruption and bribery during his tenure as FIFA president.

Blatter and former UEFA president Michel Platini were both cleared of corruption charges by a Swiss court earlier this year. However, Blatter remains banned from taking part any FIFA-related activities until 2007.

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Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has admitted it was a 'mistake' to award the 2022 World Cup hosting rights to Qatar. Blatter was the FIFA president back in 2010 when Qatar managed to win the hosting right for the tournament despite USA being favourites to stage the showpiece event this year.

Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has admitted it was a 'mistake' to award the 2022 World Cup hosting rights to Qatar. Blatter was the FIFA president back in 2010 when Qatar managed to win the hosting right for the tournament despite USA being favourites to stage the showpiece event this year. Qatar has been at the center of criticism from all corners for its infamous history of human rights violations. The country has been accused of mistreating and forcing migrant labours to work in inhumane conditions during the construction of stadiums for the 2022 FIFA World Cup which is set to get underway from November 20 this year. Blatter, who was the eighth president of the world football's governing body FIFA, remained in charge for 17 years from 1998 to 2015. It was during his stint at the top that Qatar won the hosting rights. The former FIFA president has now admitted it was a 'bad choice' and said that World Cup is too big an event for a small country like Qatar. Also Read: Qatar World Cup ambassador shares take on homosexuality, says it is 'damage in the mind' "It is too small of a country. Football and the World Cup are too big for it," Blatter told Swiss newspaper Tages Anzeiger, as per Reuters. "It was a bad choice. And I was responsible for that as president at the time," he added. Qatar has faced criticism from several current and former players and coaches over human rights violations in the country. Recently pub owners in Germany, which houses one of the biggest football fan bases in the world, announced that they will boycott the upcoming World Cup. Also Read: Dani Alves makes the cut, Roberto Firmino left out as Brazil announce squad for FIFA World Cup 2022 Blatter said FIFA amended the criteria for the selection of World Cup hosts in 2012 after serious accusations of human rights violations agaist Qatar. FIFA also took into account the accusations against Qatar over the poor working conditions for labours at tournaent-related working sites. "Since then, social considerations and human rights are taken into account," said Blatter, who was accused of corruption and bribery during his tenure as FIFA president. Blatter and former UEFA president Michel Platini were both cleared of corruption charges by a Swiss court earlier this year. However, Blatter remains banned from taking part any FIFA-related activities until 2007. ×

'It was a bad choice': Ex-FIFA president Sepp Blatter feels awarding World Cup rights to Qatar was a mistake

A six-month exhibition in Doha opened its doors to football fans and enthusiasts in October, giving them a journey through the history of football and World Cup tournaments.

"World of Football Exhibition" opens in Qatar ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022

South Korea forward&nbsp;Son&nbsp;Heung-min's World Cup participation could be in doubt as he will undergo surgery on a facial fracture, his club Tottenham Hotspur said on Wednesday. Son, 30, was injured midway through the first half of Tottenham's Champions League tie at Olympique de Marseille following an aerial clash with Chancel Mbemba.

He required lengthy treatment on the pitch before being substituted and walking unsteadily down the tunnel. "We can confirm that&nbsp;Heung-Min&nbsp;Son&nbsp;will undergo surgery to stabilise a fracture around his left eye," Tottenham said on their website. "Following surgery,&nbsp;Son&nbsp;will commence rehabilitation with our medical staff and we shall update supporters further in due course."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-erling-haaland-to-luis-diaz-superstar-footballers-who-wont-be-seen-in-fifa-world-cup-in-qatar-529189">From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar</a>

South Korea's hopes at the World Cup which begins in less than three weeks rest heavily on&nbsp;Son&nbsp;who has scored 35 goals in 104 appearances for his country. South Korea are in Group H with Portugal, Ghana and Uruguay. Tottenham did not say how long&nbsp;Son&nbsp;is likely to be out of action but his injury is a big blow to Antonio Conte's third-placed side who face Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday. They were already missing forward Richarlison&nbsp;and winger Dejan Kulusevski.

South Korea forward Son Heung-min's World Cup participation could be in doubt as he will undergo surgery on a facial fracture, his club Tottenham Hotspur said on Wednesday.

South Korea forward Son Heung-min's World Cup participation could be in doubt as he will undergo surgery on a facial fracture, his club Tottenham Hotspur said on Wednesday. Son, 30, was injured midway through the first half of Tottenham's Champions League tie at Olympique de Marseille following an aerial clash with Chancel Mbemba. He required lengthy treatment on the pitch before being substituted and walking unsteadily down the tunnel. "We can confirm that Heung-Min Son will undergo surgery to stabilise a fracture around his left eye," Tottenham said on their website. "Following surgery, Son will commence rehabilitation with our medical staff and we shall update supporters further in due course." ALSO READ | From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar South Korea's hopes at the World Cup which begins in less than three weeks rest heavily on Son who has scored 35 goals in 104 appearances for his country. South Korea are in Group H with Portugal, Ghana and Uruguay. Tottenham did not say how long Son is likely to be out of action but his injury is a big blow to Antonio Conte's third-placed side who face Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday. They were already missing forward Richarlison and winger Dejan Kulusevski.

South Korea forward Son Heung-min to undergo surgery ahead of FIFA World Cup in Qatar

Qatar authorities said Wednesday they have seized 144 counterfeit World Cup trophies, the latest raid on fakes hitting the market ahead of the football tournament that starts later this month.

The interior ministry said officers launched an operation "acting on a piece of information about a website that promotes the sale of cups that mimic the true shape of the World Cup."

It released a photo showing the 144 life-sized trophies laid out across a floor and stated that "further legal procedures will be followed".

The ministry did not say where the trophies were found, nor whether suspects had been detained.

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Football's governing body FIFA and Qatari authorities have stepped up warnings recently about distributing or buying World Cup fakes.

In June, Qatar warned drivers that it was illegal to have a World Cup logo on car number plates, after special plates were sold in online auctions.

One month earlier, police arrested five people for selling counterfeit clothes with the World Cup logo.

At the end of 2021, they raided a factory in the Gulf state producing perfume in bottles illegally using the World Cup brand.

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Qatar authorities said Wednesday they have seized 144 counterfeit World Cup trophies, the latest raid on fakes hitting the market ahead of the football tournament that starts later this month.

Qatar authorities said Wednesday they have seized 144 counterfeit World Cup trophies, the latest raid on fakes hitting the market ahead of the football tournament that starts later this month. The interior ministry said officers launched an operation "acting on a piece of information about a website that promotes the sale of cups that mimic the true shape of the World Cup." It released a photo showing the 144 life-sized trophies laid out across a floor and stated that "further legal procedures will be followed". The ministry did not say where the trophies were found, nor whether suspects had been detained. ALSO READ: Tennis trailblazer Billie King believes Qatar World Cup can be force for good Football's governing body FIFA and Qatari authorities have stepped up warnings recently about distributing or buying World Cup fakes. In June, Qatar warned drivers that it was illegal to have a World Cup logo on car number plates, after special plates were sold in online auctions. One month earlier, police arrested five people for selling counterfeit clothes with the World Cup logo. At the end of 2021, they raided a factory in the Gulf state producing perfume in bottles illegally using the World Cup brand. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Fake World Cup trophies seized in Qatar

Unpaid wages dominate a growing number of complaints by migrant workers in Qatar, the UN labour agency said Tuesday, 19 days from the start of the football World Cup.

The International Labour Organization said the number of worker complaints more than doubled in a year to 34,425 with the launch of a new online platform, in a report which called on Qatar to bolster the implementation of reforms launched after criticism of its rights record.

"The main causes of complaints concerned non-payment of wages and end-of service benefits, and annual leave not being granted or paid," said the ILO report which added that 10,500 cases went to labour tribunals where nearly all judges ruled in favour of workers.

The report said the number of workers treated for heat-related problems linked to the Gulf state's searing summer temperatures had also fallen after the introduction of new restrictions in 2021. It said four clinics for migrant workers treated 351 workers this summer, down from 620 in 2021 and 1,520 in 2020.

Qatar, where the World Cup starts on November 20, has been widely criticised over conditions for migrant workers -- as well as rights for women and the LGBTQ community.

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The ILO said Qatar has carried out "significant" reforms that have "improved the working and living conditions for hundreds of thousands of workers" and were having an impact across the Gulf region.

"There is universal acknowledgement that more needs to be done to fully apply and enforce the labour reforms," said the report.

"We all recognise that we are not yet at the finish line, and we will build on this solid foundation to address the gaps in implementation, and ensure that all workers and employers can fully benefit from these major reforms," said Ruba Jaradat, ILO regional director for Arab states.

The report came out as Germany's Interior Minister Nancy Faeser met Qatari government leaders in Doha after her comments on the tiny energy-rich state caused a diplomatic storm. Qatar, which has become increasingly frustrated over the criticism, summoned the German ambassador after Faeser said Qatar's hosting of the World Cup was "very tricky" for Germany.

Faeser and Germany's football federation chief Bernd Neuendorf met ILO officials and union representatives on Monday.

Rights groups have continued to put a fierce spotlight on Qatar's record, accusing the government of under-reporting the number of deaths on mega construction projects linked to the World Cup and demanding FIFA set up a compensation fund for migrant workers.

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The ILO said, in a report issued in 2021, that 50 workers had died on construction projects in 2020.

It has not updated these figures, but its report said "substantial efforts" have been made in "labour migration governance, the enforcement of the labour law and access to justice, and strengthening the voice of workers and social dialogue."

It said more than 300,000 workers had been able to change jobs after the partial dismantling of the "Kafala" labour system that previously meant a worker could not change posts or even leave the country without permission from their employer.

But it added: "There is a universal recognition that the work is not complete. This is not surprising given their (reforms) magnitude. It takes time to build institutions and change deep-rooted practices."

The ILO established a temporary office in Doha after international unions made an official complaint about Qatar in 2014. It said that Qatar has now requested that the office become permanent -- which would be its first full office in a region where labour standards are regularly criticised.

Unpaid wages dominate a growing number of complaints by migrant workers in Qatar, the UN labour agency said Tuesday, 19 days from the start of the football World Cup.

Unpaid wages dominate a growing number of complaints by migrant workers in Qatar, the UN labour agency said Tuesday, 19 days from the start of the football World Cup. The International Labour Organization said the number of worker complaints more than doubled in a year to 34,425 with the launch of a new online platform, in a report which called on Qatar to bolster the implementation of reforms launched after criticism of its rights record. "The main causes of complaints concerned non-payment of wages and end-of service benefits, and annual leave not being granted or paid," said the ILO report which added that 10,500 cases went to labour tribunals where nearly all judges ruled in favour of workers. The report said the number of workers treated for heat-related problems linked to the Gulf state's searing summer temperatures had also fallen after the introduction of new restrictions in 2021. It said four clinics for migrant workers treated 351 workers this summer, down from 620 in 2021 and 1,520 in 2020. Qatar, where the World Cup starts on November 20, has been widely criticised over conditions for migrant workers -- as well as rights for women and the LGBTQ community. Also Read: France's Paul Pogba to miss World Cup after failing to recover from surgery The ILO said Qatar has carried out "significant" reforms that have "improved the working and living conditions for hundreds of thousands of workers" and were having an impact across the Gulf region. "There is universal acknowledgement that more needs to be done to fully apply and enforce the labour reforms," said the report. "We all recognise that we are not yet at the finish line, and we will build on this solid foundation to address the gaps in implementation, and ensure that all workers and employers can fully benefit from these major reforms," said Ruba Jaradat, ILO regional director for Arab states. The report came out as Germany's Interior Minister Nancy Faeser met Qatari government leaders in Doha after her comments on the tiny energy-rich state caused a diplomatic storm. Qatar, which has become increasingly frustrated over the criticism, summoned the German ambassador after Faeser said Qatar's hosting of the World Cup was "very tricky" for Germany. Faeser and Germany's football federation chief Bernd Neuendorf met ILO officials and union representatives on Monday. Rights groups have continued to put a fierce spotlight on Qatar's record, accusing the government of under-reporting the number of deaths on mega construction projects linked to the World Cup and demanding FIFA set up a compensation fund for migrant workers. Also Read: Neymar corruption trial wraps up after Spain prosecutors drop charges The ILO said, in a report issued in 2021, that 50 workers had died on construction projects in 2020. It has not updated these figures, but its report said "substantial efforts" have been made in "labour migration governance, the enforcement of the labour law and access to justice, and strengthening the voice of workers and social dialogue." It said more than 300,000 workers had been able to change jobs after the partial dismantling of the "Kafala" labour system that previously meant a worker could not change posts or even leave the country without permission from their employer. But it added: "There is a universal recognition that the work is not complete. This is not surprising given their (reforms) magnitude. It takes time to build institutions and change deep-rooted practices." The ILO established a temporary office in Doha after international unions made an official complaint about Qatar in 2014. It said that Qatar has now requested that the office become permanent -- which would be its first full office in a region where labour standards are regularly criticised.

Unpaid wages top complaint of migrant workers in Qatar, says UN labour agency

Qatar's emir has hit out at the criticism faced by his nation ahead of the football world cup. Ghadi Francis tells you more on #TheWestAsiaPost

The West Asia Post | Qatar's Emir hits out at criticism

Qatar has faced intense criticism since it was set to host the World Cup, the Australian football team has released a video demanding more from Qatar. The latter has faced heat for its labour policies and human rights record.

FIFA 2022: Qatar's Emir lashes out at criticism ahead of World Cup

Qatar has emptied apartment blocks housing thousands of foreign workers in the same areas in the centre of the capital Doha where visiting soccer fans will stay during the World Cup, workers who were evicted from their homes told Reuters.

They said more than a dozen buildings had been evacuated and shut down by authorities, forcing the mainly Asian and African workers to seek what shelter they could - including bedding down on the pavement outside one of their former homes.

The move comes less than four weeks before the Nov. 20 start of the global soccer tournament which has drawn intense international scrutiny of Qatar's treatment of foreign workers and its restrictive social laws.

At one building which residents said housed 1,200 people in Doha's Al Mansoura district, authorities told people at about 8 pm on Wednesday they had just two hours to leave.

Municipal officials returned around 10.30 pm, forced everyone out and locked the doors to the building, they said. Some men had not been able to return in time to collect their belongings.

"We don't have anywhere to go," one man told Reuters the next day as he prepared to sleep out for a second night with around 10 other men, some of them shirtless in the autumn heat and humidity of the Gulf Arab state.

He, and most other workers who spoke to Reuters, declined to give their names or personal details for fear of reprisals from the authorities or employers.

Nearby, five men were loading a mattress and a small fridge into the back of a pickup truck. They said they had found a room in Sumaysimah, about 40 km (25 miles) north of Doha.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-erling-haaland-to-luis-diaz-superstar-footballers-who-wont-be-seen-in-fifa-world-cup-in-qatar-529189">From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar</a>

A Qatari government official said the evictions are unrelated to the World Cup and were designed "in line with ongoing comprehensive and long-term plans to re-organise areas of Doha."

"All have since been rehoused in safe and appropriate accommodation," the official said, adding that requests to vacate "would have been conducted with proper notice."

World soccer's governing body FIFA did not respond to a request for comment and Qatar's World Cup organisers directed inquiries to the government.

Around 85% of Qatar's three million population are foreign workers. Many of those evicted work as drivers, day labourers or have contracts with companies but are responsible for their own accommodation - unlike those working for major construction firms who live in camps housing tens of thousands of people.

One worker said the evictions targeted single men, while foreign workers with families were unaffected.

A Reuters reporter saw more than a dozen buildings where residents said people had been evicted. Some buildings had their electricity switched off.

Most were in neighbourhoods where the government has rented buildings for World Cup fan accommodation. The organisers' website lists buildings in Al Mansoura and other districts where flats are advertised for between $240 and $426 per night.

The Qatari official said municipal authorities have been enforcing a 2010 Qatari law which prohibits "workers' camps within family residential areas" - a designation encompassing most of central Doha - and gives them the power to move people out.

Some of the evicted workers said they hoped to find places to live amid purpose-built workers' accommodation in and around the industrial zone on Doha's southwestern outskirts or in outlying cities, a long commute from their jobs.

The evictions "keep Qatar's glitzy and wealthy facade in place without publicly acknowledging the cheap labour that makes it possible," said Vani Saraswathi, Director of Projects at Migrant-Rights.org, which campaigns for foreign workers in the Middle East.

"This is deliberate ghetto-isation at the best of times. But evictions with barely any notice are inhumane beyond comprehension."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-are-not-going-to-stop-manchester-united-winger-antony-responds-to-criticism-over-showboating-529364">'We are not going to stop': Manchester United winger Antony responds to criticism over showboating</a>

Some workers said they had experienced serial evictions. One said he was forced to change buildings in Al Mansoura at the end of September, only to be moved on 11 days later with no prior notice, along with some 400 others. "In one minute, we had to move," he said.

Mohammed, a driver from Bangladesh, said he had lived in the same neighbourhood for 14 years until Wednesday, when the municipality told him he had 48 hours to leave the villa he shared with 38 other people.

He said labourers who built up the infrastructure for Qatar to host the World Cup were being pushed aside as the tournament approaches.

"Who made the stadiums? Who made the roads? Who made everything? Bengalis, Pakistanis. People like us. Now they are making us all go outside."

Qatar has emptied apartment blocks housing thousands of foreign workers in the same areas in the centre of the capital Doha where visiting soccer fans will stay during the World Cup, workers who were evicted from their homes told Reuters.

Qatar has emptied apartment blocks housing thousands of foreign workers in the same areas in the centre of the capital Doha where visiting soccer fans will stay during the World Cup, workers who were evicted from their homes told Reuters. They said more than a dozen buildings had been evacuated and shut down by authorities, forcing the mainly Asian and African workers to seek what shelter they could - including bedding down on the pavement outside one of their former homes. The move comes less than four weeks before the Nov. 20 start of the global soccer tournament which has drawn intense international scrutiny of Qatar's treatment of foreign workers and its restrictive social laws. At one building which residents said housed 1,200 people in Doha's Al Mansoura district, authorities told people at about 8 pm on Wednesday they had just two hours to leave. Municipal officials returned around 10.30 pm, forced everyone out and locked the doors to the building, they said. Some men had not been able to return in time to collect their belongings. "We don't have anywhere to go," one man told Reuters the next day as he prepared to sleep out for a second night with around 10 other men, some of them shirtless in the autumn heat and humidity of the Gulf Arab state. He, and most other workers who spoke to Reuters, declined to give their names or personal details for fear of reprisals from the authorities or employers. Nearby, five men were loading a mattress and a small fridge into the back of a pickup truck. They said they had found a room in Sumaysimah, about 40 km (25 miles) north of Doha. Also Read: From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar A Qatari government official said the evictions are unrelated to the World Cup and were designed "in line with ongoing comprehensive and long-term plans to re-organise areas of Doha." "All have since been rehoused in safe and appropriate accommodation," the official said, adding that requests to vacate "would have been conducted with proper notice." World soccer's governing body FIFA did not respond to a request for comment and Qatar's World Cup organisers directed inquiries to the government. Around 85% of Qatar's three million population are foreign workers. Many of those evicted work as drivers, day labourers or have contracts with companies but are responsible for their own accommodation - unlike those working for major construction firms who live in camps housing tens of thousands of people. One worker said the evictions targeted single men, while foreign workers with families were unaffected. A Reuters reporter saw more than a dozen buildings where residents said people had been evicted. Some buildings had their electricity switched off. Most were in neighbourhoods where the government has rented buildings for World Cup fan accommodation. The organisers' website lists buildings in Al Mansoura and other districts where flats are advertised for between $240 and $426 per night. The Qatari official said municipal authorities have been enforcing a 2010 Qatari law which prohibits "workers' camps within family residential areas" - a designation encompassing most of central Doha - and gives them the power to move people out. Some of the evicted workers said they hoped to find places to live amid purpose-built workers' accommodation in and around the industrial zone on Doha's southwestern outskirts or in outlying cities, a long commute from their jobs. The evictions "keep Qatar's glitzy and wealthy facade in place without publicly acknowledging the cheap labour that makes it possible," said Vani Saraswathi, Director of Projects at Migrant-Rights.org, which campaigns for foreign workers in the Middle East. "This is deliberate ghetto-isation at the best of times. But evictions with barely any notice are inhumane beyond comprehension." Also Read: 'We are not going to stop': Manchester United winger Antony responds to criticism over showboating Some workers said they had experienced serial evictions. One said he was forced to change buildings in Al Mansoura at the end of September, only to be moved on 11 days later with no prior notice, along with some 400 others. "In one minute, we had to move," he said. Mohammed, a driver from Bangladesh, said he had lived in the same neighbourhood for 14 years until Wednesday, when the municipality told him he had 48 hours to leave the villa he shared with 38 other people. He said labourers who built up the infrastructure for Qatar to host the World Cup were being pushed aside as the tournament approaches. "Who made the stadiums? Who made the roads? Who made everything? Bengalis, Pakistanis. People like us. Now they are making us all go outside."

Thousands of workers evicted in Qatar's capital ahead of FIFA World Cup 2022

From Erling Haaland to Luis Diaz: Superstar footballers who won't be seen in FIFA World Cup in Qatar

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly sparked a major controversy on Wednesday as he advised LGBTQ+ football fans to show “compromise” and be “respectful of the host nation” while visiting Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022. The comment was rejected by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office. &nbsp;

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“I have spoken to the Qatari authorities in the past about gay football fans going to watch the World Cup and how they will treat our fans and international fans. They want to make sure that football fans are safe, secure and enjoy themselves, and they know that that means they are going to have to make some compromises in terms of what is an Islamic country with a very different set of cultural norms to our own,” Cleverly told LBC Radio a day after he was included in the new UK cabinet.&nbsp;

“One of the things I would say for football fans is, you know, please do be respectful of the host nation. They are trying to ensure that people can be themselves and enjoy the football, and I think with a little bit of flex and compromise at both ends, it can be a safe, secure and exciting World Cup,” he added.&nbsp;

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Several LGBTQ+ fans and activists have expressed their concerns regarding the possible problems that they can face while visiting Qatar. While homosexuality is criminalised in the country, FIFA officials have promised repeatedly that they will ensure that all fans have a good experience at the tournament.&nbsp;

Sunak’s office released a statement which said that people&nbsp;should not&nbsp;“compromise who they are.”&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly sparked a major controversy on Wednesday as he advised LGBTQ+ football fans to show “compromise” and be “respectful of the host nation” while visiting Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022.

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly sparked a major controversy on Wednesday as he advised LGBTQ+ football fans to show “compromise” and be “respectful of the host nation” while visiting Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022. The comment was rejected by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s office. Also read | Istanbul to host IPL 2023? BCCI set to announce venue by early November - Report “I have spoken to the Qatari authorities in the past about gay football fans going to watch the World Cup and how they will treat our fans and international fans. They want to make sure that football fans are safe, secure and enjoy themselves, and they know that that means they are going to have to make some compromises in terms of what is an Islamic country with a very different set of cultural norms to our own,” Cleverly told LBC Radio a day after he was included in the new UK cabinet. “One of the things I would say for football fans is, you know, please do be respectful of the host nation. They are trying to ensure that people can be themselves and enjoy the football, and I think with a little bit of flex and compromise at both ends, it can be a safe, secure and exciting World Cup,” he added. Also read | New UK PM Rishi Sunak's India connect - Everything you need to know Several LGBTQ+ fans and activists have expressed their concerns regarding the possible problems that they can face while visiting Qatar. While homosexuality is criminalised in the country, FIFA officials have promised repeatedly that they will ensure that all fans have a good experience at the tournament. Sunak’s office released a statement which said that people should not “compromise who they are.”

UK foreign secretary asks LGBTQ+ fans to 'compromise' at World Cup in Qatar

Australia's national soccer team spoke out against World Cup host&nbsp;Qatar's record on human rights and same-sex relationships in a video released on Thursday, adding to criticism of the country in the weeks ahead of the tournament.

Qatar, the first Middle Eastern country to host the World Cup, has come under intense international pressure for its treatment of foreign workers and restrictive social laws. The video, featuring several players delivering a message line by line, cited harm to&nbsp;Qatar's more than 1.6 million migrant workers and the status of same-sex relationships, which are illegal in the conservative gulf state.

"We have learned that the decision to host the World Cup in&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;has resulted in the suffering and the harm of countless of our fellow workers," midfielder Jackson Irvine said. "As players we fully support the rights of LGBTI+ people, but in&nbsp;Qatar&nbsp;people are not free to love the person that they choose," said fellow midfielder Denis Genreau.

Qatari ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani on Tuesday said while some criticism was constructive, it also included fabrications and double standards. The Socceroos acknowledged reforms to date but called for more including a migrant resource centre, remedy for those denied rights and decriminalisation of all same-sex relationships.

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A separate statement from Football Australia, the peak soccer body, on Thursday acknowledged reforms but said the games had been associated "with suffering for some migrant workers and their families." Disquiet over the country's human rights record has led to calls for teams and officials to boycott the games. The Dutch government confirmed last week it would send a delegation despite a parliamentary vote urging it not to.

Players expressed support for FIFPRO, a trade union for professional footballers, as well as worker groups the Building and Woodworkers International and the International Trade Union Confederation. Australia will play against France, Denmark and Tunisia after the World Cup kicks off on Nov. 20.

Australia's national soccer team spoke out against World Cup host Qatar's record on human rights and same-sex relationships in a video released on Thursday, adding to criticism of the country in the weeks ahead of the tournament.

Australia's national soccer team spoke out against World Cup host Qatar's record on human rights and same-sex relationships in a video released on Thursday, adding to criticism of the country in the weeks ahead of the tournament. Qatar, the first Middle Eastern country to host the World Cup, has come under intense international pressure for its treatment of foreign workers and restrictive social laws. The video, featuring several players delivering a message line by line, cited harm to Qatar's more than 1.6 million migrant workers and the status of same-sex relationships, which are illegal in the conservative gulf state. "We have learned that the decision to host the World Cup in Qatar has resulted in the suffering and the harm of countless of our fellow workers," midfielder Jackson Irvine said. "As players we fully support the rights of LGBTI+ people, but in Qatar people are not free to love the person that they choose," said fellow midfielder Denis Genreau. Qatari ruler Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani on Tuesday said while some criticism was constructive, it also included fabrications and double standards. The Socceroos acknowledged reforms to date but called for more including a migrant resource centre, remedy for those denied rights and decriminalisation of all same-sex relationships. ALSO READ | Qatar scraps COVID-19 entry test requirement for FIFA World Cup 2022 fans A separate statement from Football Australia, the peak soccer body, on Thursday acknowledged reforms but said the games had been associated "with suffering for some migrant workers and their families." Disquiet over the country's human rights record has led to calls for teams and officials to boycott the games. The Dutch government confirmed last week it would send a delegation despite a parliamentary vote urging it not to. Players expressed support for FIFPRO, a trade union for professional footballers, as well as worker groups the Building and Woodworkers International and the International Trade Union Confederation. Australia will play against France, Denmark and Tunisia after the World Cup kicks off on Nov. 20.

Australian players call out Qatar's human rights record before FIFA World Cup

Over a million fans are expected to visit Qatar for the football world cup. The country's tourism industry prepares to welcome football fans. Ghadi Francis tells you more on The West Asia Post

The West Asia Post | Qatar Tourism prepares for Football World Cup

Qatar is preparing to receive nearly about a million visitors who will be visiting the country for the football World Cup and its tourism industry is hoping to showcase a completely different side of the country for the fans to come and see the top-notch football match.

Qatar prepares to host football World Cup, expects 1.2 million visitors

Security forces in Qatar arbitrarily arrested and abused LGBT Qataris as recently as last month, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Monday, in the run-up to hosting soccer's World Cup which has put a spotlight on human rights issues in the Gulf Arab state.

Homosexuality is illegal in the conservative Muslim country, and some soccer stars have raised concerns over the rights of fans travelling for the event, especially LGBT+ individuals and women, whom rights groups say Qatari laws discriminate against.

A Qatari official said in a statement that HRW's allegations "contain information that is categorically and unequivocally false," without specifying.

Organisers of the World Cup, which starts on Nov. 20 and is the first held in a Middle Eastern nation, say that everyone, no matter their sexual orientation or background, is welcome, while also warning against public displays of affection.

"Freedom of expression and nondiscrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity should be guaranteed, permanently, for all residents of Qatar, not just spectators going to Qatar for the World Cup," HRW said in a statement.

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The organisation said it had interviewed six LGBT Qataris, including four transgender women, one bisexual woman and one gay man, who reported being detained between 2019 and 2022 and subjected to verbal and physical abuse, including kicking and punching.

They were detained without charge in an underground prison in Doha, HRW said, and one individual was held for two months in solitary confinement.

"All six said that police forced them to sign pledges indicating that they would 'cease immoral activity'," it said, adding that transgender women detainees were mandated to attend conversion therapy sessions at a government-sponsored clinic.

Qatar does not "license or operate 'conversion centres'," the Qatari official said.

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One of the transgender Qatari women interviewed by HRW told Reuters on condition of anonymity that she was arrested several times, most recently this summer when she was held for several weeks.

Authorities had stopped her due to her appearance or for possessing make-up, the woman said, adding that she had been beaten to the point of bleeding and had her head shaved.

The behaviour centre she was mandated to attend told the woman she had a gender identity disorder and accused her of being transgender in search of "sympathy from others".

"The last thing I want is sympathy, I just want to be myself," she said.

Security forces in Qatar arbitrarily arrested and abused LGBT Qataris as recently as last month, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Monday, in the run-up to hosting soccer's World Cup which has put a spotlight on human rights issues in the Gulf Arab state.

Security forces in Qatar arbitrarily arrested and abused LGBT Qataris as recently as last month, Human Rights Watch (HRW) said on Monday, in the run-up to hosting soccer's World Cup which has put a spotlight on human rights issues in the Gulf Arab state. Homosexuality is illegal in the conservative Muslim country, and some soccer stars have raised concerns over the rights of fans travelling for the event, especially LGBT+ individuals and women, whom rights groups say Qatari laws discriminate against. A Qatari official said in a statement that HRW's allegations "contain information that is categorically and unequivocally false," without specifying. Organisers of the World Cup, which starts on Nov. 20 and is the first held in a Middle Eastern nation, say that everyone, no matter their sexual orientation or background, is welcome, while also warning against public displays of affection. "Freedom of expression and nondiscrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity should be guaranteed, permanently, for all residents of Qatar, not just spectators going to Qatar for the World Cup," HRW said in a statement. Also Read: Argentina captain Lionel Messi picks his title favourites for FIFA World Cup 2022 The organisation said it had interviewed six LGBT Qataris, including four transgender women, one bisexual woman and one gay man, who reported being detained between 2019 and 2022 and subjected to verbal and physical abuse, including kicking and punching. They were detained without charge in an underground prison in Doha, HRW said, and one individual was held for two months in solitary confinement. "All six said that police forced them to sign pledges indicating that they would 'cease immoral activity'," it said, adding that transgender women detainees were mandated to attend conversion therapy sessions at a government-sponsored clinic. Qatar does not "license or operate 'conversion centres'," the Qatari official said. Also Read: Battling Southampton hold league leaders Arsenal to 1-1 draw in Premier League One of the transgender Qatari women interviewed by HRW told Reuters on condition of anonymity that she was arrested several times, most recently this summer when she was held for several weeks. Authorities had stopped her due to her appearance or for possessing make-up, the woman said, adding that she had been beaten to the point of bleeding and had her head shaved. The behaviour centre she was mandated to attend told the woman she had a gender identity disorder and accused her of being transgender in search of "sympathy from others". "The last thing I want is sympathy, I just want to be myself," she said.

Qatar has detained and mistreated LGBT people ahead of FIFA World Cup, says HRW

A pair of giant pandas sent as gifts from China to Qatar arrived in Al Khor on Wednesday ahead of next month's World Cup.

Pandas from China arrive in Qatar ahead of FIFA World Cup

Qatari landlords eyeing profit from the looming World Cup have been kicking out a growing number of mostly foreign tenants, sometimes with just a few days' notice. More than one million football fans are expected to descend on the capital Doha during the November-December tournament, putting a strain on the tiny Gulf nation.

Landlords who have spotted an opening to increase rents "show no pity" and the market is dominated by "greed", said a representative of a real estate company, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Reem, a foreigner working for a major Qatari company, was told she had a week to leave her apartment.

The woman, using a pseudonym to avoid blowback from her employer, told AFP the owner of the block wanted the dozens of apartments he has rented to her employers emptied so they could earn more during the World Cup.

"We felt humiliated," Reem said.

The company has moved Reem and other employees into a hotel, but they can only stay there until November 15, five days before the tournament kicks off. They were told they will then move into "temporary" apartments, she said.

"Leaving home with all our belongings in bags and boxes to go into a hotel room was a disaster."

Other tenants in Doha told AFP they were similarly forced to choose between paying more on rent or leaving.

Properties in the tower where Reem used to live are advertised on booking.com for $1,700 a night during the World Cup with a minimum stay of 14 nights.

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In the two years she had been in the apartment, Reem said rent was $2,500 a month. Most fans will be staying in hotels, apartments, cruise ships and desert camps booked through the official World Cup portal.

Despite some concerns, organisers have insisted there will be enough accommodation for all fans in the emirate of just 2.8 million people. To ease the crunch, FIFA recently released thousands of hotel rooms it had reserved, which experts have said could push prices down in the coming weeks.

Some World Cup visitors are turning to the open market for luxury apartments or better locations near specific stadiums, and the prices advertised for some Doha properties highlight owners' sky-high hopes. On Airbnb, apartments for two people go for $2,500 a night.&nbsp;

A villa for the full 29 days of the World Cup will cost fans booking through the online platform at least $13,000 -- but prices can go into the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Some Doha residents are putting their flats and houses up for rent and fleeing Qatar for the month. Adel, who listed his small apartment on Airbnb for $900 a night, said that "demand was very high" when he first advertised it.

But he had to cancel the reservations after Airbnb asked him to provide a statement from his landlord approving the sublet. Rents have also risen sharply for tenants coming to the end of their leases in recent months.

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While Qatari law allows for an increase of up to 10 percent for a lease renewal, rents in some districts of Doha have risen by as much as 40 percent over the past year, according to Anum Hassan, head of research in Qatar at international consultancy firm Valustrat.

A Western diplomat in Doha said embassy staff have demanded increased salaries to meet their rent payments.

"Rents... will stay high for a while," said Nabil Ghorra, a 59-year-old Lebanese-American who lives in Doha's upscale Pearl district.

"I feel that there are people taking advantage of the situation, but this happens all over the world when there's an event" like the World Cup.

 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Qatari landlords eyeing profit from the looming World Cup have been kicking out a growing number of mostly foreign tenants, sometimes with just a few days' notice.

Qatari landlords eyeing profit from the looming World Cup have been kicking out a growing number of mostly foreign tenants, sometimes with just a few days' notice. More than one million football fans are expected to descend on the capital Doha during the November-December tournament, putting a strain on the tiny Gulf nation. Landlords who have spotted an opening to increase rents "show no pity" and the market is dominated by "greed", said a representative of a real estate company, speaking on condition of anonymity. Reem, a foreigner working for a major Qatari company, was told she had a week to leave her apartment. The woman, using a pseudonym to avoid blowback from her employer, told AFP the owner of the block wanted the dozens of apartments he has rented to her employers emptied so they could earn more during the World Cup. "We felt humiliated," Reem said. The company has moved Reem and other employees into a hotel, but they can only stay there until November 15, five days before the tournament kicks off. They were told they will then move into "temporary" apartments, she said. "Leaving home with all our belongings in bags and boxes to go into a hotel room was a disaster." Other tenants in Doha told AFP they were similarly forced to choose between paying more on rent or leaving. Properties in the tower where Reem used to live are advertised on booking.com for $1,700 a night during the World Cup with a minimum stay of 14 nights. Also Read: Kylian Mbappe rubbishes reports of PSG exit in January: 'I was as shocked as everyone else' In the two years she had been in the apartment, Reem said rent was $2,500 a month. Most fans will be staying in hotels, apartments, cruise ships and desert camps booked through the official World Cup portal. Despite some concerns, organisers have insisted there will be enough accommodation for all fans in the emirate of just 2.8 million people. To ease the crunch, FIFA recently released thousands of hotel rooms it had reserved, which experts have said could push prices down in the coming weeks. Some World Cup visitors are turning to the open market for luxury apartments or better locations near specific stadiums, and the prices advertised for some Doha properties highlight owners' sky-high hopes. On Airbnb, apartments for two people go for $2,500 a night. A villa for the full 29 days of the World Cup will cost fans booking through the online platform at least $13,000 -- but prices can go into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. Some Doha residents are putting their flats and houses up for rent and fleeing Qatar for the month. Adel, who listed his small apartment on Airbnb for $900 a night, said that "demand was very high" when he first advertised it. But he had to cancel the reservations after Airbnb asked him to provide a statement from his landlord approving the sublet. Rents have also risen sharply for tenants coming to the end of their leases in recent months. Also Read: Premier League - Liverpool beat Manchester City 1-0, Arsenal go 4 points clear on top with win against Leeds While Qatari law allows for an increase of up to 10 percent for a lease renewal, rents in some districts of Doha have risen by as much as 40 percent over the past year, according to Anum Hassan, head of research in Qatar at international consultancy firm Valustrat. A Western diplomat in Doha said embassy staff have demanded increased salaries to meet their rent payments. "Rents... will stay high for a while," said Nabil Ghorra, a 59-year-old Lebanese-American who lives in Doha's upscale Pearl district. "I feel that there are people taking advantage of the situation, but this happens all over the world when there's an event" like the World Cup.

World Cup boom pushes some Qatar residents out of homes as rents skyrocket

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

It is just a matter of time before the 2022 World Cup kicks off in Qatar. The excitement for the tournament is slowly but surely starting to build up. All eyes are set on the biggest stars in the world of football who will be locking horns come November.

From Ronaldo to Messi, these five stars might be playing their last FIFA World Cup

Ahead of Qatar FIFA football world cup 2022, have a look at countries with most FIFA world cup wins. Brazil leads the race the record five-times wins.

Countries with most FIFA world cup wins

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