Since FIFA announced that Qatar will host the 2022 World Cup back in 2010, the focus has well and truly been on the plans and procedures taking place in this culturally rich region.
Bringing the world's most prestigious tournament to the Middle East for the first time in the tourney's 92-year history, has really put the focus on this culturally rich area. One of the most talked about topics being the stadiums themselves, with a lot of attention being put on Lusail Stadium - the future home to the final match. Designed to reflect the hand-crafted bowls found all across the Arab and Islamic world during the rise of civilisation, while interplays of light mirror the fanar lanterns of the region. With the passing of time, the golden exterior will fade replicating aged metal handicrafts to create a venue alive with cultural character. Foster + Partners head of studio Luke Fox said "Our ambition was to create a striking yet simple form that reflects the building's function, responds to the climate of Qatar and enhances the theatre of the event,".
The breathtaking ‘gold bowl’ is one of 8 stadiums being used during the tournament. Each one impressive in its own right. Al Thumama Stadium 12km south of central Doha, who’s first match is being played on November 21st, is a bold, circular form. The design reflects the gahfiya – the traditional woven cap adorned by men and boys all across the Arab world. The first glimpse of Al Thumama for many may come from above, as the majority of international flights descend directly over the venue.
As the host of the opening ceremony, all eyes will be on Al Bayt Stadium on the 20th November. Inspired by the bayt al sha’ar of Qatar’s nomadic people, the stadium’s magnificent tent structure envelopes an ultra-modern football stadium. Traditionally, the tents are identified by black and white stripes. This is reflected on the arena's distinctive exterior, as are the vibrant sadu patterns that greet fans once inside.
Regardless of which of the 8 stadiums you focus on, what is evident throughout is a richness of culture and history coming together with a modern vision, which ultimately focuses on opening doors to invite the world to experience true Qatari customs.
In keeping with Qatar’s dedication to sustainable development, Lusail Stadium will be transformed into a community space of schools, shops, cafés, sporting facilities and health clinics once the tournament is over. Al Bayt Stadium has an upper tier that was designed to be removed – allowing the recommissioning of seats. And Al Janoub Stadium’s capacity will be reduced, with seats donated to other sporting projects around the world. Meaning that once the last whistle has been blown and the last goal scored, these stadiums will continue to give back to the community.
At the end of the day, is it the soccer that makes the World Cup? Of course there are times when the games are breathtaking, nail-biting and heartbreaking, but really the soccer World Cup is so much more. It’s a time for the world to come together, celebrate with the host city, experience what they have to offer, and unite as one.
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