In hosting major international sporting events, buying up soccer teams and even creating a golf league, the resource-rich Gulf States are seeking attention, prestige, economic diversification and political credibility.
Tag: World Cup 2022 (Soccer)
5 Books to Read About Qatar Before the World Cup
Qatar is the first Arab nation to host the tournament, bringing all the country’s contradictions to the fore.
Qatar Will Allow Israelis to Fly Directly to Doha for World Cup
The move fell short of creating formal diplomatic ties between the countries, but it was the latest sign of warming relations between Israel and some Arab governments.
Team Melli Once United Iran at World Cup. Now It Reflects Its Divisions.
Team Melli was long seen as a unifying force in a fractious nation. As it heads to the World Cup, it has become ensnared in its country’s internal politics.
Will Qatar Be Ready for the World Cup?
As sports fans prepare to flood the tiny Gulf nation, cranes and loaders are still running hard — as is criticism of Qatar’s human rights record and exploitation of workers.
Iran Soccer Stars Speak Out on Protests; Group Urges FIFA Ban
Some of the country’s most famous players have expressed support for street protests over the death of a young woman. On Thursday, an activist group went further: It asked FIFA to bar Iran from the World Cup.
Your Friday Briefing
Russia moves to annex Ukrainian territory.
How a Globetrotting Family Learned to Love Soccer and the ‘Grey Wiggle’
Over many years and locations, we had come to almost worship the World Cup, something that let us bond with almost anyone, anywhere.
Aliou Cissé Has Senegal Ready to Shine in World Cup
Aliou Cissé, one of the best of a new generation of African coaches, has reinvented Senegal’s national team and given the country a new sense of patriotism. His next goal: the World Cup.
Aliou Cissé Has Senegal Ready to Shine in World Cup
Aliou Cissé, one of the best of a new generation of African coaches, has reinvented Senegal’s national team and given the country a new sense of patriotism. His next goal: the World Cup.