For the first time in the competition’s history, the 2022 World Cup is in November.
Traditionally, the World Cup takes place during the summer months of June, July or August. However, once FIFA selected Qatar as the host for the 2022 iteration, organizers decided that summer temperatures would be too hot for the World Cup.
To compensate for this, FIFA delayed the World Cup by four months. Now, the World Cup runs from November 20 until just before Christmas.
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Why is the 2022 World Cup in November?
For reference, temperatures in Doha, Qatar average around 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). With the sun beating down on the players, it would test their ability to perform.
Equally important to FIFA, however, is the aftermath for the fans. With millions poised to travel to the small nation, many would not be used to the heat and sun of the Arabian Peninsula. Consequently, there would be health problems due to sunstroke or dehydration.
In the end, FIFA decided to completely scrap the idea of playing in the summer. However, he promised to play in Qatar nonetheless. Even in November and December, high temperatures can reach around 90 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (32 to 35 degrees Celsius). However, daytime highs can also average in the 75 degree Fahrenheit (24 degree Celsius) range. While it’s a stiff range, it’s better than the blazing heat of summer.
Consequences for sport
It makes sense to move the World Cup back to make it fresher for fans and players. However, this brings massive changes to the world soccer calendar.
With the month-long tournament taking place in November and December, there is a massive break for the club side of the sport. Teams kick players out for about two months. This jam packs games before the World Cup. Additionally, any games that are postponed due to a variety of reasons are rolled back into the new year. The increased strain on the bodies of players with more games could prove detrimental when it comes to World Cup play.
PHOTO: IMAGO / Xinhua
