Foreign Office Information Of Qatar Paints Bleak Picture For World Cup 2022

There is just short of four years until the first winter World Cup kicks off in Qatar. Information set out by the foreign office suggests England fans could have their enjoyment of the tournament severely hampered.

In just 1460 days the World Cup in Qatar will kick off. Some amongst you will think it's only 1359 days considering it's four years ago yesterday that the tournament will start, but those people are forgetting 2020's extra day!

It's a pretty weird feeling knowing that football's spectacle will be kicking off in winter, ending just a week before Christmas, in a country that has no history with the sport.

Travelling to Qatar could be a bit more appealing to fans than the thought of going to Russia, what with the winter sun and beaches, but the Foreign Office's advice on travelling to the Middle East country doesn't exactly read well for some fans.

As per the Foreign Office, "it is an offence to drink alcohol or be drunk in public. Alcohol is available at licensed hotel restaurants and bars." It is thought alcohol might be made available inside fan parks and possibly stadiums but being drunk will still be an offence.

The Khalifa International Stadium in Doha. Image: PA Images

Homosexuality is also illegal in the host country making the trip for some fans extremely uncomfortable.

There is also a question about terrorism in the country. Again the Foreign Office say 'terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Qatar,' although the country will be extremely highly policed during the tournament.

The pluses for fans wanting to travel include the fact that the tournament is in the winter, as well as the fact it's likely they'll be no need for a visa through a similar scheme to the one used in Russia.

PA

A November/December tournament means that fans, and players, will be able to enjoy 18-24 degree heat instead of enduring 40 degree heat.

The Fan ID system last summer allowed fans to travel without a visa and it's likely that Qatar would offer a similar system to make it easier for fans.

Fans have a lot of questions to ask themselves before deciding whether or not they want to travel in winter 2022.

Will you be going to Qatar?

Topics: Football News, 2022 World Cup, FIFA World Cup, World Cup

Ryan Sidle

Ryan is a writer for SPORTbible. He covers all sport from football, formula one, cricket, rugby, tennis, athletics, mma and wrestling. He obviously hates YOUR football team and has no interest in synchronised swimming.

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