Unfortunately there has already been controversy surrounding these games. They are being held in Qatar which in itself is a problem because of the scandal involving the upper management of FIFA accepting bribes from Qatar to host the games. There has been much criticism of FIFA for the unfair process of selecting host countries. The selection of Qatar has also been criticized as a host because of it's lack of a football tradition, their human rights record, the lack of adequate facilities and the climate.
One of the really awful controversies has been the allegations of slavery conditions for migrant workers constructing the stadium to be used in the games. There has been documented systematic abuse of workers, unsafe and unsanitary conditions.
Drinking alcohol and being intoxicated is against the law in Qatar. FIFA has set up special areas within the stadium area for fans who have a drink but don't dare go anywhere else in Qatar for a beer or show up anywhere seeming drunk. There are very strict laws. The fans who drink must stay at the facility to sober up. They cannot be seen in public under the effects of alcohol.
Homosexuality is also against the law in Qatar and technically gay athletes and fans are not permitted into the country. Yep, it is illegal to be gay in Qatar. An official from the Qatar FIFA Ambassador described homosexuality as "damage in the mind". There have been calls to boycott the games. I hope to see some rainbow flags in the stadium during games.
Then there is the climate. The games were moved from the usual summer because the temperature in Qatar goes up to 122 degrees. The games are being played in the winter this time which is very unusual.
Qatar when spoken sounds like gutter. Very apt.
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