White House to send official US delegation to World Cup, despite Qatar human rights abuse claims

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White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre on Wednesday afternoon confirmed the U.S. would send a delegation to the upcoming 2022 World Cup in Qatar. 

The tournament – scheduled to begin on November 20th – has come under increasing scrutiny from human rights groups for allegations regarding the host nation’s exploitation of migrant workers during construction of stadium infrastructure. 

Jean-Pierre wouldn’t specify who would attend the tournament from the U.S., saying, "We’re still determining who will lead and join an official U.S. delegation to the World Cup."

White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks with reporters in the James Brady Press Briefing Room at the White House, Friday, Sept. 16, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

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When questioned if the White House was contemplating not sending a delegation in an attempt to convey a message to the Qatari’s regarding their alleged migrant abuses, Jean-Pierre said it wasn’t being considered. 

"This is an important event, and we’re going to be cheering on the team, Team USA. It is not an unusual thing for us to do when there is an event like this," the press secretary added. 

Qatar, which the United States Department of Justice concluded bribed FIFA officials for hosting rights, has experienced a turbulent path to the opening match. 

In an unprecedented move, the competition was moved from its traditional summer hosting slot to the winter to avoid intense and extreme heat, drawing ire from players and fans alike. 

U.S. forward Christian Pulisic (10) celebrates with teammate Tyler Adams (4) after scoring a goal during the