Tag: FIFA

  • FIFA World Cup 2022: Female fans banned from wearing revealing clothes, could face jail term in Qatar

    FIFA World Cup 2022: Female fans banned from wearing revealing clothes, could face jail term in Qatar

    The FIFA World Cup 2022 is approaching and fans cannot wait for the first match on November 20 between hosts Qatar and Equador, which will serve as the event’s catalyst. Even though the hosts have received criticism for hosting the competition for a variety of reasons, there is a lot of excitement surrounding the World Cup.

    The major football World Cup is being hosted for the first time by Qatar, but it won’t be the last as several countries in the Middle East are vying to host it following the 2022 edition.

    The number of fans arriving in Doha for the FIFA World Cup 2022 would be staggering since 32 countries will be competing.

    However, there is some unfavourable news for fans, particularly the female ones from the UK, USA, and other nations. The female fans must refrain from donning too-revealing attire. They should be aware of the regulations in Qatar, where wearing revealing clothing is prohibited. Although FIFA’s website states that fans can wear whatever they want, they must respect local laws and cover any exposed body parts.

    The World Cup website states: “People can generally wear their clothing of choice. Visitors are expected to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting public places like museums and other government buildings.” The Sun reported that women travelling in Qatar are banned from wearing tight clothes and flashing their cleavages. It is also important to note that if the fans remove their shirts due to excessive heat, they can be spotted by the special cameras installed in the stadiums. 

    Chief technology officer Niyas Abulrahiman said: “We have high-resolution special cameras to zoom in on a particular seat and clearly see the spectator. It’s being recorded, so that will help us in any post-event investigation.”

    Those who disregard the clothing code are promised severe punishment, and serious violations may even result in jail time, according to The Sun.

    As alcohol importation is prohibited, supporters should refrain from buying duty-free alcohol, according to Daily Mail.

    During the FIFA World Cup 2022, a “sin tax” has been imposed on all alcoholic beverage sales.

    Swearing, public displays of love, and alcohol use outside of fan zones are all punishable by fines and arrests.

  • Ticket sales for FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar are nearing 3 million: Infantino

    Ticket sales for FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar are nearing 3 million: Infantino

    Ticket sales for the FIFA World Cup are nearing three million ahead of the tournament’s start in Qatar on November 20, according to FIFA President Gianni Infantino and event organisers on Monday.

    According to Brecorder, Qatar, the United States, and Saudi Arabia were the top three purchasing countries among the 2.89 million tickets sold, according to World Cup Chief Operating Officer Colin Smith at a news conference in Doha.

    Infantino said in a video address to the conference that 240,000 hospitality packages for the month-long tournament, the first in a Middle Eastern country, had been sold.

    Qatar, the smallest country to host soccer’s global showpiece tournament, expects an estimated 1.2 million visitors during the World Cup. Due to limited accommodation in Qatar, thousands of fans are expected to stay in neighbouring countries for matches.

    Yasir Al Jamal, the director general of Qatar’s World Cup organising committee, told a news conference that 2 million room nights had been sold and that Qatar had added an additional 30,000 rooms to accommodate last-minute ticket sales.

    Soccer teams, their support staff, and World Cup officials will occupy many hotel rooms in Doha. Japan will be the first team to arrive at the tournament on November 7, according to Smith.

  • Pakistan Army contingent leaves for Qatar to provide assistance during FIFA 2022

    Pakistan Army contingent leaves for Qatar to provide assistance during FIFA 2022

    A contingent of the Pakistan Army left for Qatar on Monday to join security personnel deployed for Federation International de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup 2022.

    The contingent is comprised of Pakistan Army officers, junior commissioned officers, and soldiers. They will provide security assistance during the biggest and most anticipated sporting event of the year.

    The troops travelling to the Gulf country for World Cup 2022 were trained by FIFA’s eight-member international team when it visited Pakistan in September.

    The Qatari interior ministry had made a request to send Pakistan Army for security assistance.

    The FIFA World Cup 2022 will be played from November 20 to December 18. Qatar will become the first Middle Eastern country to host the FIFA World Cup.

  • Teams which have qualified for FIFA World Cup 2022

    Teams which have qualified for FIFA World Cup 2022

    The countdown for FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar has begun. It will be the first edition of the tournament to be held in the Middle East and the first to start at the end of the calendar year, from November 20 till December 18.

    A total of 32 countries have earned a ticket to tournament through regional qualifying matches. The following list provides a regional breakdown:

    • Africa : 5
    • Asia : 4
    • Europe : 13
    • North America and Australia: 4
    • South America: 4

    This 2022 World Cup will feature 32 teams. Qatar and another 31 countries have qualified for the tournament.

    Below is the list of teams

    Group A:
    • Qatar
    • Ecuador
    • Senegal
    • Netherlands
    Group B:
    • England
    • Iran
    • USA
    • Wales
    Group C:
    • Argentina
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Mexico
    • Poland
    Group D:
    • France
    • Australia
    • Denmark
    • Tunisia
    Group E:
    • Spain
    • Costa Rica
    • Germany
    • Japan
    Group F:
    • Belgium
    • Canada
    • Morocco
    • Croatia
    Group G:
    • Portugal
    • Ghana
    • Uruguay
    • South Korea

  • Pak Army to assist Qatar with security for FIFA World Cup 2022

    The Pakistan Army will assist Qatar with security in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022. The federal cabinet approved a draft agreement that allows the government to provide troops for security at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this year.

    “The agreement aims to define the obligations of the two parties, the specific specialisations, and the number of security personnel to be sent by Pakistan to participate in the security and safety operations,” the summary presented to the cabinet read.

    Read more- Pakistan offers Qatar security for 2022 FIFA World Cup

    The government of Qatar had requested Pakistan’s assistance in the security of the FIFA World Cup. The event will be held from November 21 to December 18, 2022.

    Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif is in Qatar on a two-day official visit at the request of Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

  • FIFA lifts ban on Pakistan Football Federation

    FIFA lifts ban on Pakistan Football Federation

    The ban on the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) has finally been lifted by FIFA, according to a statement from the Normalisation Committee.

    Pakistan now returns to the international football circuit and will also be able to host its leagues and other events thanks to financial support from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation after FIFA made the decision following the fulfilment of all necessary requirements by Pakistan (AFC).

    According to a press release from the FIFA Council’s Bureau, the suspension against the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) that was imposed in April 2021 as a result of excessive third-party interference will be lifted on June 29, 2022.

    The choice was made after FIFA was informed that the PFF’s normalisation committee had reclaimed full control of its facilities and was capable of handling its finances.

    The normalisation committee’s mandate would now be unachievable to complete by the original deadline of today, the statement continued, so the bureau decided to extend the committee’s authority until June 30, 2023.

    According to FIFA, “this will allow the latter to finally carry out the tasks assigned to it in full.”

    Haroon Malik, the chairman of the Normalization Committee, congratulated the entire country on the development and said his team had worked incredibly hard to lift the ban that had plagued both football players and fans in the nation.

    With the ban lifted, the Pakistani football team will once again be able to play in international competitions and friendly matches, and after more than a year of absence, regular football activities will once again be conducted in the nation.

    After the Ashfaq group unlawfully occupied the PFF headquarters in April of last year, Pakistan was placed under a travel ban. The Normalization Committee’s authority has now been extended by a year, and it has been given the responsibility of holding elections, starting up football activities, and taking control of PFF’s property.

  • #BelievingIsMagic: FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola Touches Down in Lahore on June 7

    #BelievingIsMagic: FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola Touches Down in Lahore on June 7

    As part of the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour™ by Coca-Cola, the official FIFA World Cup™ trophy touched down in Lahore accompanied by a delegation that included notable FIFA personnel as well as former FIFA World Cup™ winner and legendary footballer, Christian Karembeu. The initiative under the hashtag #BelievingIsMagic is aimed at promoting inclusivity and visibility of all FIFA partner nations ahead of the final games in Qatar.

    Hajra Khan, Captain of Pakistan Women’s National Football Team, awaited alongside a panel of senior Coca-Cola leadership for the FIFA delegation to touch down at the airfield. After receiving a warm welcome to the country, the delegation was escorted to the trophy’s arrival event in Lahore, hosted by Hajra Khan and attended by several of Pakistan’s leading sportspersons, celebrities, dignitaries, ministers of state, and digital media opinion leaders in attendance.

    The people of Pakistan have always enjoyed a rich sports culture, as well as a storied athletic history. The country is responsible for producing over 40 million footballs a year, and the manufacturing of sporting goods contributes significantly to Pakistan’s economy. A documentary highlighting football in Pakistan was screened during the event to shine a light on the country’s contributions to football.

    Ahmad Hanif Orakzai, Vice President, Pakistan Sports Board, was the chief guest for the trophy arrival event. He spoke about the government’s ongoing and upcoming efforts to bring football to the mainstream. The Vice President went on to speak about transforming Pakistan into a country that celebrates and facilitates sports at all levels. He extended his heartfelt thanks to the FIFA delegation and presented them with a locally made football as a token of the country’s appreciation.

    “The reason for our strong focus on sports infrastructure is because we know the best formula for our future is to empower the youth of Pakistan. Thanks to Coca-Cola, we now have a strong partner in turning this dream into a reality,” he said.

    During the course of the event, Pakistan’s leading youth athletes were brought to attention and appreciated for their contributions to the country.

    Former FIFA World Cup™ winner and legendary footballer, Christian Karembeu, was the star of the show in more ways than one. He stood next to the trophy, providing Pakistani fans an opportunity to see a legend of the game next to football’s most coveted prize. He expressed his gratitude at being given this amazing opportunity to be part of an initiative that aimed to inspire Pakistan’s youth.

    “I am honestly amazed to see the enthusiasm of Pakistani football fans. It has been amazing to hear these stories from young footballers from all these diverse communities, and I love the fact that they all have positive outlooks on their respective journeys. The future of Pakistani sports is definitely bright,” said the legendary footballer.

    “Sports brings communities and nations together and at Coca-Cola, we are delighted to champion this spirit of unity,” said Fahad Ashraf, Vice President, Coca-Cola Pakistan and Afghanistan Region, in his address to those gathered.

    As the sun set on the day’s proceedings, attendees enjoyed musical performances in an event hosted by the renowned Anoushey Ashraf and Dino Ali. The concert was headlined by big-name performers like Talal Qureshi, Shae Gill, Hasan Raheem, and Abdullah Siddiqui.

    Christian Karembeu was once again in the limelight at the grand finale as he unveiled the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy in spectacular fashion. And that’s how the night ended; the crowd cheering wildly for the trophy and the legendary footballer holding it, against a backdrop of colourful confetti and flashes of cold fire.

    Pakistan is one of the 51 countries where this year’s tour is taking place, bringing Coca-Cola and FIFA one step closer to visiting all 211 Football Nations by 2030. #BelievingInMagic

    This is a sponsored article.

  • FIFA to lift suspension imposed on Pakistan Football Federation soon after banning it last year

    FIFA to lift suspension imposed on Pakistan Football Federation soon after banning it last year

    Federation Internationale de Football Association’s (FIFA) appointed Normalisation Committee (NC) has reportedly regained control of Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) headquarters. The action will also pave the way for FIFA to lift the suspension on PFF.

    The newly appointed chairman of FIFA’s appointed NC Haroon Malik announced the development on Twitter. He said, “Congratulations to the football family on the return of Football House. The FIFA NC recognises and lauds the contributions of Dr Fehmida Mirza in achieving this momentous milestone. We thank the entire football family for their support. It is now time to move forward together.”

    Last year, a group of football officials led by Ashfaq Hussain Shah was elected as PFF president in the 2018 elections but not recognised by FIFA.

    FIFA said its decision to suspend the PFF was prompted by the “hostile takeover”, which constituted a serious violation of its statutes.

    However, the normalisation committee will likely resume its day-to-day affairs of PFF headquarters from Monday.

    According to Geo News’ sources, the NC has already prepared an 8-month-long roadmap for elections in the PPF. The process will start later this month and will be supervised by the Government of Pakistan.

  • FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tickets go on sale

    FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tickets go on sale

    Tickets for the FIFA (Federation Internationale de Football Association) World Cup Qatar 2022 have been put on sale which is set to be played from November 21 until December 18 2022.

    Qatari residents will benefit from subsidised tickets, with prices starting from just under $11 (Rs1,938). However, for international fans prices are starting from $69 (Rs12,158) that go up to $1,607 (Rs283,175). There will also be cheaper accessibility tickets available for those with disabilities.

    Fans applying for tickets until February 8 will go into a draw with those who are successful to be notified by March 8.

    It is reported that seven stadiums in Qatar have been purpose-built and one refurbished for the World Cup but as there will not be enough hotels some fans may have to stay on cruise ships for the event.

    Qatar is the first Arab and Middle Eastern country to be hosting the biggest event of football. However, it has not yet been announced by either FIFA or the local organising committee how many fans will be allowed into stadiums.

    Currently, the Arab country has imposed tight restrictions on visitors including quarantine for new arrivals.

  • Norway takes back decision to boycott Qatar World Cup 2022

    Norway takes back decision to boycott Qatar World Cup 2022

    Norwegian Football Federation (NFF) on Sunday ruled out the decision of boycotting next year’s FIFA World Cup in Qatar, amid the pressure from grassroots activists over accusations of the mistreatment of migrant workers.

    As per reports, a congress was called by the federation to make a final decision in which 368 delegates voted for a motion rejecting a boycott while 121 were in favour.

    In addition to this, Sandvik, spokesman of the Norwegian Supporters Alliance (NSA), said the matches in Qatar will “unfortunately be like playing on a cemetery”.

    The movement was highlighted when the Norwegian professional football club, Tromsø IL, spoke out against the Gulf State. This year in March, Norwegian National Football players wore t-shirts with the slogan ‘Human rights, on and off the pitch’, as they were warming up before FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualification match.

    Norway is currently fourth in its World Cup qualifying group and hasn’t qualified for a major international Football competition since Euro 2000.

    It is to be noted that not only Norway but other European countries such as Germany and Netherlands have protested against the Gulf State.

    The major reason behind the boycott is that a media report published earlier this month alleged that approximately 6,500 migrant workers from South Asia had died in Qatar since 2010 when the country was awarded hosting rights of the 2022 tournament. In the past, there were also a lot of protests against harsh working conditions, especially during the summer, they are forced to work under the scorching sun.

    There is a lack of rights for migrant workers, who comprise about 95 percent of Qatar’s population, reports Al Jazeera.