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World Cup boss on how FAs, clubs and fans benefit from Qatar 2022 model. But can he overcome its image problem?

Alamy

Alamy

One year out from the 2022 World Cup final, Off The Pitch spoke to Supreme Committee CEO Nasser Al Khater, who says that “…“if you're a diehard fan and you want to watch four matches, provided that you have tickets, you can do that.”

Al Khater speaks candidly about the controversies that have at times threatened to engulf the World Cup 2022 hosts, including human rights, gay rights, the Gulf blockade and Covid.

“We understand criticism is part of the territory. We were prepared for it, but I don't think we were prepared for the level of ferociousness of these questions and allegations.”

17 December 2021 - 4:12 PM

One year out from the 2022 World Cup Final in Qatar the chief executive of next year’s tournament has told Off The Pitch that stadium construction is virtually complete and that the unique localised tournament concept will mitigate player fatigue and benefit fans.

Because the World Cup is mid-season, just eight days pass between the final and a return to Premier League action, with other European leagues returning soon after.

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