FIFA President Says Qatar Completed in Years Work That Could Take Decades

Doha, April 01 (QNA) - FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the efforts of the State of Qatar, saying the work the country has done to host the World Cup 2022 would normally take decades, but instead only needed a few years. In a press conference after the conclusion of the FIFA Congress, Infantino said that he has witnessed the work Qatar is doing regarding expat workers and human rights. He highlighted that there were preconceived notions judging the views of the Western world regarding the Arab World and the World Cup in Qatar. He said that he expects Qatar's edition of the World Cup will be one that is hard to replicate, given the country's preparations that were widely praised. He said that the decision to hold the World Cup every two years was one that can't be rushed, and that everyone must discuss what is best for the sport. He highlighted that the idea was met with strong opposition in Europe and South America. On the FIFA Club World Cup, he said that FIFA is looking into a new format for the competition, but that it was still under review. On the situation in Ukraine, he said FIFA moved swiftly to suspend Russia's membership in FIFA. He added that Russia for its part appealed the decision at CAS. He highlighted that Russia participated in today's meeting because FIFA believes in the importance of having everyone participate and in the importance of building bridges. In concluding his remarks, Infantino said that he was "very happy that Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and Morocco have qualified for the World Cup." (QNA)