FIFA has confirmed that the 2022 World Cup in Qatar will kick-off on November 21st, and will run for the shorter period of 28 days.
In addition, December 18th will be the date for the final, which is the county’s national holiday.
The decision has been a long time coming, with FIFA stating such a move was pivotal in avoiding the summer heat in Qatar – which graces the months of July and July.
However, there has, and will continue to be, widespread criticism surrounding the decision with the majority of top domestic leagues likely to see their season affected.
Not only are there issues surrounding domestic leagues, but also the integrity of the competition, having seen every tournament take place in the summer.
Questions also continue to linger regarding the awarding of the World Cup to Qatar, as the bid will have included any blockades, leading to calls of corruption.
There is expected to be a huge backlash, so time will tell as to whether it will go ahead in the winter, or even in Qatar itself.