DOHA (Qatar): The Secretary-General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy Hassan Al Thawadi said Doha is excited to host fans from all over the world during the FIFA 2022 World Cup.
Al Thawadi said the preparations are in full swing, and Qatar is proud to host the region’s first-ever FIFA World Cup football.
The top official added that the fans should expect great weather, outstanding hospitality and a raft of entertainment options.
Al Thawadi, who has led Qatar’s drive to host the FIFA World Cup since 2009, also outlined his vision for the tournaments legacy, which includes breaking down stereotypes about the country and region.
When will all the stadiums be ready?
Al Thawadi: Preparations are coming along very well. We have two stadiums already operational and by the end of the first half of next year, we will have three more stadiums ready and operational. By the end of 2021, all eight of our stadiums will have been inaugurated, tested and be tournament-ready.
How will Arabian Gulf Cup and FIFA Club World Cup help preparations for Qatar 2022?
Al Thawadi: The Arabian Gulf Cup and FIFA Club World Cup are great tournaments as rehearsals for 2022. First, they’re helping us in crowd management, communication, fan experience and identifying the areas where we can improve. We’re looking to welcome the fans and also communicate with them and get their feedback as to their experience.
What can fans travelling for these tournaments expect from Qatar?
Al Thawadi: The fans can expect sun, the beach, entertainment and hospitality. In November and December, we have great weather and fans will be able to experience cultural events, concerts, trips to the desert and trips to the beach. All of them will give a flavour of the Middle East, Arab countries and Qatar.
What do you envisage the legacy of Qatar 2022 will be for Qatar, the region and the world?
Al Thawadi: In terms of the first World Cup in the Middle East and Islamic world, I believe the legacy of this World Cup will be huge. First of all, we’re looking at building bridges. Football and World Cup can help people on a human to human level build a very close relationship and get rid of stereotypes and the differences between culture and backgrounds.
