Qatar World Cup CEO says 'death is a natural part of life, at work or in sleep'

A man recently died while working on repairs for a resort, which was being used as FIFA training facility for Saudi Arabia before their elimination from the tournament.

Advertisement

When asked about the news by the BBC, Al Khater said: "We're in the middle of a World Cup and we're having a successful World Cup and this is something you want to talk about right now?

"Death is a natural part of life, whether it is at work, whether it is in your sleep.

Advertisement

"A worker died, our condolences to his family but it is strange that is something you want to focus on as your first question."

These comments appear at odds with the Qatari government, which has launched an investigation and promised serious consequences for any wrongdoing.

The 2022 World Cup has been shrouded in controversy ever since it was awarded to Qatar in 2010 - and the treatment of migrant workers has caused widespread outrage.

The Times reported in February 2021 that 6,500 migrant workers had lost their lives in Qatar since they were awarded the World Cup, although officials claim only 40 people have died on projects directly connected to the tournament.

Advertisement

Hassan Al-Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy of the Qatar World Cup, recently spoke to talkSPORT and insisted the rights of migrant workers are protected.

He said: "Every worker has contributed to the development of our country.

"Every worker that has come here to provide a better life for their families back home, they are part of our society. They have contributed to the development of this country.

Advertisement

"The systems we have put in place, the reforms we have put in place come from our values and our belief system - to ensure the safety, security, health and dignity of everyone working in Qatar is protected and enhanced."