AlKass Digital
Doha, Qatar- H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), highlighted the progress made towards the ‘legacy projects’ including the construction of the stadiums in view of the FIFA World Cup 2022.
He was speaking during the FT Live: Future of Football 2018 conference in Doha.
“In Qatar, we have utilised the World Cup to accelerate reforms. Even our most ardent critics are impressed at the progress being made. I’m personally very proud of the steps we have taken in relation to workers’ rights, including the provision of standards, accommodation and health and safety. The World Cup has already started paying dividends for Qatar,” said Al Thawadi.
“The way Qatar has taken leadership in terms of workers’ welfare reforms across the region is a perfect example of how major sporting events can leave a legacy even before the event is held,” he added.
Stressing on the fact, that FIFA World Cup 2022 would have major positive impact on the region, as this would be the first World Cup being hosted by a nation in the Middle East.
“This World Cup has always been a Middle East and Arab World Cup,” he said, adding, “To think there are people in the region who might not enjoy the first World Cup in the Middle East is very disappointing. We look forward to this matter being sorted out [blockade]. Football is for the people – and we want this tournament to reach the people of the region.”
On the progress made towards the allied areas connected to the major footballing event, Al Thawadi said: “We’ve developed significant transportation infrastructure, including the metro, expressways and walkways. The metro will be fully operational by 2019, which is very impressive in terms of the size of the project. I experienced my first ride yesterday, between Lusail and Al Wakrah, which took about 35 minutes.”
“Accommodation-wise, we are continuing to work with Qatar Tourism Authority. We are looking at various options, including hotel rooms, serviced apartments and cruise ships. We are carefully considering capacity as we don’t want to introduce rooms which are not required beyond 2022.”
Terming the recently concluded World Cup in Russia as a source of inspiration, Al Thawadi said: “Russia hosted a fantastic World Cup and set a high benchmark for us. We sent more than 100 people to Russia and gained valuable experience in a range of areas, including security, venue management, transportation and others.”
On the innovating ideas, being drawn from Russia 2018, he added, “Fan ID was a great success and it’s something we’re looking to emulate in Qatar,” said Al Thawadi. “We’re looking forward to evolving the system and making it work for our tournament.”