The world cup is something that many people look forward to for many different reasons. They may be soccer fans or they may like to root for their team.
Whatever the case may be, it is essential to look forward to it.
The Middle East will be hosting the FIFA World Cup for the first time ever, with Qatar serving as its avenue. Remember, the FIFA World Cup is one of the most important tournaments in the world. The tournament will be kicking off in the winter of 2022, providing room for the hosting of the month-long carnival in one of the Middle East’s famous economies.
Well, here are the fun facts about World Cup 2022
1. The first-ever winter World Cup
Yes, the 2022 edition of the FIFA World Cup will be the first-ever winter World Cup (if looked at from the northern hemisphere). Remember, the tournament is usually held in mid-year. However, the organizing committee had to throw an exception particularly when it comes to Qatar.
Remember, the host country experiences distressingly high temperatures as it is nestled in the Middle East. The temperatures can go as high as 50 degrees Celsius. Hosting a global event in such conditions is a near-impossibility. This explains why the tournament was moved from the usual summer season.
2. The costs
It will be the most expensive FIFA World Cup on the planet. Well, here are the figures: the host country has allocated a whopping $200 billion on infrastructure initiatives which include the construction of stadiums, hotels and highways. The expenditure is 60 times what South Africa spent in 2010 ($3.5 billion).
3. The least number of stadiums
This might raise a few eyebrows. However, the number of stadiums to be used in this year’s tournament will be the 2nd least in history. Only eight stadiums will host the World Cup 2022. In fact, out of the eight locations selected to host the games, only one underwent full revamping. Seven other stadiums are being newly constructed to host the matches.
Remember, Argentina hosted the World Cup with just six stadiums. However, this was in 1978. Qatar will be hosting eight stadiums.
4. The most commutable tournament
The host country’s size makes commuting an easy endeavor in the 2022 FIFA World Cup tournament. Host cities like Al Rayyan, Lusail, Doha, and Al Wakrah are located in close proximity to one another. As such, switching between games from one venue to the other among the fans and players will not be a hassle. Interestingly, the two most remote stadiums in the host country, Al Wakrah and Al Bayt are only 90 miles apart.
5. The stadiums will be fully air-conditioned
Remember, Qatar receives distressingly high temperatures, particularly during the day. However, FIFA World Cup fans need not to be worried. There are arrangements to cater to this challenge. For the first time ever, the country has come up with an audacious solution by building fully air-conditioned stadiums. All the stadiums will be fully air-conditioned, providing both the fans and the players with a great experience during their stay in Qatar.
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