Given the World Cup's universal appeal, anticipation for this premier event is nearly unanimous. Despite claims that the 2022 World Cup's fervor is waning, it remains a beloved spectacle for football enthusiasts worldwide.
Consequently, anything connected to the World Cup holds an enduring allure. The 2022 edition, in particular, captivates people's curiosity. The grandeur of the World Cup is intrinsically intertwined with its underlying truths.
Some revelations are known while others remain veiled, concealing intriguing facts about the 2022 World Cup, likely unfamiliar to most.
Did you know that Qatar stands as the solitary host nation never to have qualified for a World Cup before? The forthcoming 22nd edition marks their debut. Indeed, Qatar's football legacy dates back to 1960, with their FIFA membership secured in 1963.
Despite these efforts, the Qatari national team perennially stumbled in their bid to qualify. This edition, however, as hosts, spares them the toil of qualification—they've earned an automatic entry.
Remarkably opulent, the 2022 Qatar World Cup also holds the distinction of boasting the fewest stadiums in FIFA history since 1978, despite its staggering $200 billion price tag. Merely eight stadiums are enlisted, with a sole existing venue refurbished and the rest purpose-built.
Consider this: Argentina managed the 1978 World Cup with just six stadiums. In stark contrast, South Africa utilized 10 in 2010, while both Brazil (2014) and Russia (2018) showcased 12 stadiums each.
Qatar stands out as the World Cup's tiniest host, covering a mere 11,571 square kilometers. Despite its size, transportation within Qatar is remarkably hassle-free, given the proximity of key World Cup cities like Lusail, Al Wakrah, Al Rayyan, and Doha.
These cities are closely knit, simplifying travel for those eager to soak in the World Cup ambiance across Qatar's terrain. Even remote stadiums like Al Bayt Stadium and Al Wakrah are a mere 90 miles or approximately 144 kilometers apart, offering multiple transportation options.
From Karwa Taxis to the efficient Doha Metro, travelers have various means to navigate between venues. Considering a trip to Qatar? The logistics won't be a headache.
In a unique move, the 2022 World Cup unfolds in a Muslim-majority country, where Islamic principles are reflected, including the stance on alcoholic beverages. While beer is barred from World Cup stadiums, Qatar carves out a fan zone catering to international football enthusiasts.
Within this zone, fans accustomed to beer can indulge, finding their favorite beverages available at a discounted rate—reports suggest prices hovering around 7-8 pounds per liter or approximately Rp. 130,000, with some brands like Budweiser reaching 11 pounds or about Rp. 205,000.
Another standout feature of this World Cup is the innovative approach to combating the scorching Middle Eastern temperatures. As Qatar experiences highs of 40 degrees Celsius, an unprecedented move has been made to ensure the comfort of players and fans alike—every single one of the eight stadiums is equipped with air conditioning.
In a first for the World Cup, this ensures a cool and comfortable environment for participants and spectators, a crucial factor given the heat in this unique hosting nation.
In a departure from tradition, the World Cup in Qatar, owing to its winter timing, will be the briefest yet, spanning a mere 28 days. Beyond this groundbreaking shift, an intriguing fact emerges: the 2022 World Cup marks the first without the presence of Queen Elizabeth II.
Born in 1926, Queen Elizabeth II shares a historical link with the FIFA World Cup, having been associated with several past editions. However, this year, her absence isn't due to a reluctance to tread Arab soil but rather a result of her passing on September 8, 2022.
This tournament holds significance beyond the Queen's absence. Notably, it's the second World Cup hosted in Asia, following the joint hosting by Japan and South Korea in 2002, marking a momentous occasion for the continent.
Moreover, Asia's prominence is emphasized by fielding six representatives—Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, South Korea, Japan, and Australia— a first in World Cup history, showcasing the continent's growing presence in global football.
Another historic inclusion is the appointment of three female referees and three female assistant referees for the first time in a men's World Cup. This progressive step by FIFA, featuring referees like Stephanie Frappart, Salima Mukansanga, and Yoshimi Yamashita, aims to inspire aspiring female officials globally.
Unlike past editions, the 2022 World Cup doesn't feature any debutant teams emerging solely from the qualifying rounds. While Qatar debuts as a participant, their automatic qualification as hosts sets this tournament apart, a departure from the usual introduction of new qualifying teams.
SOURCE: TopSoccerBlog, GhanaSoccerNet, SportingFree, TheDailyStar, VOI, Kreedon, WahPrints
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