Why Qatar 2022 World Cup now a major doubt

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar has been plunged into further doubt due to a diplomatic crisis, according to a report.

FIFA controversially awarded the Arab country the right to host the competition seven years ago, in which time constant questions have been raised over the nation’s capability to stage such an event.

Talk of political corruption ensued and, with the five-year countdown soon to get under way, BBC Sport suggests that the World Cup could still be staged elsewhere.

The report claims that “western diplomats have privately stated they do not know whether or not the tournament will take place as planned”, citing allegations of corruption during the bidding process.

To make matters worse for Qatar, they are currently at loggerheads with neighbouring countries and risk missing out on contracts over infrastructure for new stadia.

Saudi Arabia has closed its land border with the kingdom, while four other countries have also cut off air and sea links.