Costliest World Cup ever to kick off in Qatar under shadow of controversy

SINGAPORE: The upcoming FIFA World Cup in Qatar is shaping up to be one where events off the pitch could well overshadow action on the field.

Qatar's selection as host, the timing of the tournament and the Middle Eastern nation’s approach to issues from labour to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) rights - such controversies have taken centrestage in the lead-up to the competition.

Qatari authorities have stated that certain compromises would be made in the enforcement of its laws - for instance in the consumption of alcohol - and that steps would be taken to mitigate the effects of the heat.

The tournament, held every four years, got off to a rough start from the moment it was awarded to Qatar back in 2010. 

Questions were raised about its suitability as a footballing venue given its harsh climate, said Deloitte Southeast Asia’s sports business group leader James Walton.

Criticism later emerged on how hosting it at the end of the year would disrupt domestic league calendars, Mr Walton told CNA’s Asia First.   “That noise has only got louder over the years, as it's become clear that there were certainly some things that went on in the background of the bidding process, that perhaps shouldn't have been done,” he said.

Suspicions have long surrounded the decision by FIFA's executive committee to hand the 2022 tournament to Qatar, as well as the 2018 edition to Russia, with bribes allegedly paid to secure votes for hosting rights - something organisers have strongly denied.

Mr Walton noted that key officials involved in the process have come under scrutiny, with some banned from football and even facing criminal charges.

“Sepp Blatter himself has come out and said that he thinks the decision was wrong now,” he said of