Shannon Wasson '23
After the long-awaited four years, the World Cup returns to TV screens across the world. In arguably the competition's most contentious event yet, host nation Qatar has been under heat for questionable policies, money bids, and even stadiums in the long-awaited buildup.
In this, the first Middle Eastern World Cup, suspense has been building over whether or not Qatar can live up to soccer fans’ expectations. Going above and beyond, the Qatari government has funded billions of dollars into newly renovated stadiums and even broadcasting systems. The new additions have come at a price though, raising eyebrows from many.
Beginning in 2014, the widespread construction of modernized soccer stadiums in Qatar resulted in several lives lost. Three of these deaths were reported on construction sites while many others were considered off-site. Up until this year, these death tolls have been slowly increasing, reaching up to 6,500, as the exploitation of workers has been highly publicized.
To expand on this, Qatar’s brutal climate and conservative policies placed it in low standing as a World Cup destination. After FIFA chose a country swarmed with corruption and money laundering, soccer fans quickly grew concerned with their decision to choose the nation.
Further animosity grew towards Qatar’s treatment of women and gay people. Since 2004, homosexuality has been categorized as a crime in Qatar, being punishable by jail time or public shame. Additionally, women are also very limited, needing male supervision just to leave certain areas or to drive a car.
With several problems brewing, this World Cup grows to be one where many do not feel safe or comfortable. As soccer is a sport branded for all to enjoy, FIFA has seemingly stripped away all inclusivity and passion each fan can only hope to bring along.
Since 1930, this competition has ingrained itself within the sports world, bringing out raw passion and excitement from all borders. As time has told, however, money and large bids have overridden any emotion in the sports industry, holding a greater importance to many owners and players.
As many fans will still make the long journey to Qatar, many will also be protesting and removing themselves from such a problem-ridden event. Although it is a time when people only want to focus on football, Qatar 2022 nearly makes that idea difficult.
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