Sepp Blatter’s recent remarks, suggesting that awarding the 2022 World Cup to Qatar was a mistake and blaming France for it, have sparked controversy. In response, Najat Vallaud-Belkacem, the French Minister of Women’s Rights, the City, Youth, and Sports, has voiced her disagreement.
Vallaud-Belkacem emphasized that FIFA bears the responsibility for determining the host country for the World Cup, and it’s not for external parties to pass judgment on their decision-making process. She pointed out that there was a vote within FIFA, and it is the organization’s duty to oversee such matters.
Furthermore, she reminded that Blatter himself held responsibilities at the time of the decision to award the World Cup to Qatar, implying that he too should accept accountability for the outcome.
Blatter’s remarks and Vallaud-Belkacem’s response underscore the ongoing scrutiny and debate surrounding FIFA’s decisions, particularly regarding the selection of host countries for major tournaments like the World Cup.
