2022 FIFA World Cup Dates Confirmed: Full Schedule and Time Table of 2022 Qatar Football WC to Be Announced Later

While the football fans are waiting for the final of 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia between France and Croatia, the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has made a big announcement, confirming the dates of next football world cup, Qatar 2022 World Cup and it is not devoid of controversies. The 2022 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place from the dates between 21 November – 18 December. Yes, the 22nd edition of the FIFA’s flagship tournament will not be taking place in traditional months of a football season, i.e. May, June or July but has shifted to November and December, leading to discontentment among football fans including former players. However, the significant change is introduced keeping the climatic conditions of the host nation in mind. The full schedule timetable of Qatar 2022 World Cup with the draw and fixtures will be announced later.

FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar is going to be a unique affair for several reasons. First up, is of course due to the drastic change in the time of the year when the event is held. The 2022 World Cup will kick off on November 21 with the final played on December 18 – exactly a week before Christmas. This is going to be a first-ever winter football world cup, though 2010 World Cup in South Africa and 2014 World Cup in Brazil were held during the winters falling in the respective countries but it’s the first time the tournament will be played in November and December.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed the news on 2022 FIFA World Cup dates along with major words of appreciation for Russia 2018 World Cup, who he regarded as the best world cup ever. “For a couple of years, I have been saying that this will be the best World Cup ever and today I can say that with conviction – it is the best World Cup ever.” Gianni further added, “I would like to thank everyone. The main actors are on the pitch – the players, referees and coaches – but, of course, there are also all those who have worked to make sure everything has worked smoothly.”

Coming back to the Qatar 2022, the country had successfully bid in 2010 making it the first World Cup ever to be held in the Middle-East. Now, Qatar being a desert nation will be scorching hot during May-July, making it impossible for the tournament to take place. This prompted FIFA to push the dates to Nov-Dec, and they have clarified on how the leagues and clubs will have to adjust their football schedule to accommodate the prestigious world cup competition.

Gianni Infantino was quoted saying, “The leagues are all aware, and they will have to adapt their calendars as a consequence,” he said. "In the end, it is the right decision [to change the dates]. It cannot be played in June and July and in November and December the players are very well prepared because it is almost the beginning of the season."

Another vital part of the 22nd world cup that has generated much buzz is the final number of teams participating in the tournament. Now, 32 teams have been a part of World Cup traditionally, but Gianni hinted about increasing the number to 48 countries! He said, “We will decide whether it’s 48 or 32 teams in the next few months. We must have discussions with the Qataris and then if there is a possibility with the Fifa Council and stakeholders. Then we will decide calmly and quietly what the decision is,” before further adding, “For now it’s a World Cup with 32 teams but everybody is open-minded, and we will have a frank and open debate.” The final draw is scheduled to take place in April 2022.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 14, 2018 01:57 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).