Did FIFA make an error in awarding Qatar the hosting rights for the 2022 World Cup? The question is gaining significance as opinions differ on the timing of the competition. While the winter period is a divisive topic in the sporting world, Sepp Blatter has emphasized the point by declaring that the Qatari World Cup can only occur between November and December.
As early as July, the head of world football expressed a preference for a winter World Cup, citing the extreme summer heat in Qatar as a concern for player health. Blatter reiterated this stance during a trip to Abu Dhabi, stating that if the 2022 World Cup is moved to winter, it must be held in November-December, not in January-February.
Blatter, currently on a visit to Qatar, will discuss the organization of the 2022 World Cup with the country’s officials. This has reignited concerns from winter sports enthusiasts and critics who accuse FIFA of overlooking climate-related issues when awarding the World Cup. FIFA has initiated consultations within the football community to explore alternative timing for the World Cup, with a decision expected after the conclusion of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil from June 12 to July 13.
