2022 World Cup
Qatar Completes First Spectacle of a Stadium for 2022 World Cup Five Years Ahead of Schedule
Construction works on Qatar’s historic Khalifa International Stadium which is set to host the 2022 World Cup matches up to the quarter-final stage, have been completed five years ahead of schedule.
The stadium which seats more than 40,000 has been open since 1976 but required extensive renovation to host the first major football competition in the Middle East. While announcing its official opening, the Secretary-General of Qatar’s Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, Hassan Al Thawadi expressed his joy at the completion.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]“The completion of our first stadium more than five years before the Qatar World Cup begins, is an important milestone,”[/perfectpullquote]
Al Thawadi said with excitement.
“It reflects our determination to deliver a tournament the entire Arab world is proud to be a part of. As we promised in our bid, our innovative stadiums offer an unrivalled experience to fans and players alike”
“I’m proud we can show these off to the world and welcome fans with the hospitality this World Cup will be remembered for.
[perfectpullquote align=”full” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]“This is a venue which holds a very special place in Qatar’s sporting history and over the years, we have seen some of the greatest football players from Qatar, the region, and world stars make their mark here.”[/perfectpullquote]
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The coolest feature unveiled so far is its cooling system. The Doha ground is air conditioned and can maintain temperatures of up to 26 degrees Celsius as well as, year-round cooling effects measuring between 24-28 degrees Celsius in a country where temperatures sometimes soar to 50C.
The other improvements made include an additional seating stand on the eastern part of the stadium, a sports museum, and LED lighting which will be used for the first time in the region.
The entire spectator area is also covered by a new roof with a specially designed intricate net of German and Italian made steel weighing close to 40,000 tones put up to hold the 92 panels in place.
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The ground which has been totally rebuilt to the tune of $122 million will be opened this Friday, 19th May, when the Emir Cup Final between Al Rayyan and Al Sadd, Qatar’s most prestigious domestic football tournament, takes place.
The stadium will be completely cooled off for the final this Friday with the inauguration set to kick off 30 minutes before the match.
Featured photo: Getty Images
