Bahraini Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, president of the Asian Football Confederation, on Thursday criticized those who objected to Qatar hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup for allegedly violating human rights.
In an interview with TV reporters in Doha, Salman bin Ibrahim, a member of Bahrain’s ruling family, responded to a question about the fierce campaign against Qatar that is being waged under the banner of his Asian Confederation: “I say the caravan is moving and fill the section.”
He continued, “The organization is vibrant and the atmosphere is positive. Brotherhood (in Qatar) did not disappoint in terms of equipment and stadiums, and I think it will be one of the most successful tournaments.”
12 years ago, when Qatar won the right to host the World Cup, Qatar faced harsh criticism for allegedly violating the rights of migrant workers and the rights of gays and women.
But Qatari officials counter that their country is prone to “racism” and “double standards.”
Next February in Manama, Salman bin Ibrahim, 57, will become president of the Confederation for a third consecutive term after the list of candidates was limited to his name without any other competitor, after winning the support of 47 federations.
It is noteworthy that Salman bin Ibrahim lost the race for the presidency of the International Federation (FIFA) to its incumbent President Gianni Infantino of Switzerland on February 26, 2016 with a score of 115-88 votes.
Source: agencies