As some aspects of this discussion probably go beyond the nature of what is usually discussed in the Hangout, bnb recommended that I should start a separate thread in the D&D. After I was initially opposed to the idea, I now think that it could be a great opportunity for change in the region. If the "pressure" of being a good host for the biggest sporting event in the world forces Qatar to treat Israel's team, delegation and fans like everyone else, if they have to be aware that their human rights record will be under the microscope in the years leading up to the event (including working conditions for construction workers from abroad) and if they relax their rules around alcohol and they (and their Arabian neighbors) discover that the world doesn't end because of that - and IF they manage to be a good host and the world respects them for that - then maybe this is a good decision? (Aside from these aspects, I still have doubts about the heat and everything being so packed in such a small space, but I guess these more "logistical" aspects can be discussed in the Hangout.) What do you think? Do you think Qatar is ready to host a world cup, and do you think the world cup will have to change to be in Qatar, or Qatar will have to change to host the world cup?
thanks for the thread here. I'm loving the jokes and twitter quips -- even (especially?) the pokes at muslim and arab culture....just didn't want the Hangout thread to go too far off track with your fan club beginning to rally and you responding in kind Qatar will be fine. They've shown they're prepared to spend what it takes through the bidding and bribing process. Stadiums will be amazing. People will go. Regulations (in designated spaces) will be lifted temporarily -- and a good time will be had by all. Security will be off the charts -- no threat too small to be squashed. The games will have about as much effect on long term human rights in the region as the Olympics had in China -- none. (paging all PRC clutchians -- come one, come all). When the games are over -- we'll shift our attention elsewhere.
Within the confines of five-star hotels yes, I guess. But have you ever been at a world cup or comparable soccer event? Fans get drunk and they don't like to stay locked up in their hotel when they are drunk.
If I were a fan, I'd be more concerned about the heat. Won't it be well over 100 degrees? Brazil 2014 FTW.
I think I'll go there if I have the chance. Well, I will go to all three next ones if I have the chance.
Thank you very much, sir. I hope they do and they should. It's their football team, not some politicians in a uniform. The U.S. and Iran put those differences aside very well in 1998. I hope Qatar follows suit. Yes, I'm pissed I'll have to pay crap loads of money to be present at a World Cup game. Yes, I'm up for fairness for the entire world to experience a Cup. I will try to go to Brazil in 2014 to watch a game, but that's not what this thread is about.
Well obviously awarding the cup to Qatar was the right choice since Obama disagrees with the decision. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - President Barack Obama said on Thursday FIFA had erred in awarding the 2022 World Cup soccer finals to Qatar and not the United States. "I think it was the wrong decision," Obama told reporters when asked about the World Cup decision.
Tomorrow we're going to get a Wikileak that President Obama emailed FIFA asking, "How the hell could you give the World Cup to a tiny ****hole with a few rich Arabs?"
