Qatar in a virtual presentation, launched the latest stadium to be completed for the 2022 Soccer World Cup, and dedicated it to frontline workers battling the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Education City stadium, with 40,000-seat capacity is a ‘Diamond in the Desert’ and is the third venue to be ready, with five more under construction.
The Al Rayyan Stadium with a 40,000 capacity, and the Al Bayt Stadium with 60,000-seat capacity are due to be ready by the end of this year.
The President of World Soccer body, Gianni Infantino, said that he looked forward to a time when matches no longer had to be played without spectators due to the crisis.
“We must not forget, health comes first. In some parts of the world, it is already possible to look ahead to better times. In others, we still have to be extremely careful, stay strong and united,” he said.
“In the meantime, the new stadium in Education City reminds us that football will return and with more passion than ever. When the time comes, we will be sharing the stands with families and friends. In this beautiful and modern stadium, we will come together to celebrate the FIFA World Cup in 2022.”
After the tournament, the stadium will be converted to a 20,000 capacity with excess seat being given away to stadiums in developing countries.
“Three down, five to go. We’re on track,” said Nasser Al Khater, the 2022 World Cup Chief Executive.
“This is a virtual launch, not something that we ever imagined we’d do. But, who would have imagined that the world would be where it is right now,” he said.
