Qatar 2022: All scenarios for rescheduling would damage championships, says EPFL

"All scenarios on the re-scheduling of the World Cup in Qatar are damaging the domestic competitions and leagues’ business interests," the EPFL (Association of European Professional Football Leagues) board of directors said in a statement upon meeting in Paris on 07/05/2014.

The EPFL will discuss these scenarios "within the consultation process led by FIFA [Fédération Internationale de Football Association]," said the association, which is chaired by Frédéric Thiriez, after hearing a report from its expert group on the 2022 World Cup.

European Leagues are afraid of interrupting their championships for eight weeks if the 2022 World Cup is held in winter. FIFA specifications normally provide for a competition in June-July, but the very high summer temperatures in Qatar are leading the federation to consider a tournament in November-December 2022.

"Any change in the structure of the international calendar must be examined with the greatest attention, and in the context of a comprehensive consultation including all those involved in football and in particular the EPFL. Any decision…