Gary Lineker has ruffled feathers once again after calling the US “an extraordinarily racist country.” The BBC presenter previously upset the organizers of the 2022 World Cup by pointing out human rights problems in Qatar. FIFA and the Middle Eastern nation obviously did not appreciate the strong words much.
“We pointed out facts at the beginning of the tournament; those facts remain,” Lineker said in an interview with The News Agents. “So, a lot of people died making the stadiums. Yes, the stadiums are extraordinary, but at a very good price. Homophobia is a problem here. Women’s rights are a bit of an issue here.”
Gary Lineker calls America ‘extraordinarily racist’
After speaking out about Qatar’s woes, Lineker transitioned to the 2026 World Cup. The United States, along with Canada and Mexico, will host the tournament in four years. “For me, it was always more about the corruption side because, as I said before, I think almost every country, including ours, has problems,” Lineker continued. “And we’re going to the United States in four years, with Canada and Mexico, but obviously the United States is an extraordinarily racist country.”
“Therefore, there are always problems, but it was more the fact that we only pointed out some facts and, in particular, the aspect that it was so corrupt: they said it was going to be summer and it was winter. I don’t think anything particularly has changed, but it’s been an incredible tournament, but that’s football; football is a wonderful sport”.
Lineker also claimed in the interview that Qatari officials failed to arrange a meeting between the two parties. However, The Telegraph has reportedly seen emails sent by organizers in Qatar to the BBC and its presenters regarding a possible summit.
Three North American countries will share the 2026 World Cup as hosts. However, US cities will make up 11 of the 16 tournament venues.
PHOTO: IMAGO/PA Images
