Qatar 2022: "The commitment of the Emir to the health of workers makes me optimistic" (J. Blatter)

"It is encouraging to hear the Emir’s personal commitment to workers’ welfare and to get a sense of the improvements planned for all workers in Qatar," said Joseph Blatter, the president of FIFA after having met with the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on 15/03/2015.

The visit took place a few days before the meeting of the Executive Committee of FIFA, on 19 and 20/03/2015, where the dates of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar will be decided. "It is clear that Qatar takes its responsibility as host seriously and sees the FIFA World Cup as a catalyst for positive social change," said Blatter.

Discussion of working conditions and the movement of the tournament dates to November-December 2022

• "During the meeting at the Al Bahr Palace, His Highness the Emir of Qatar provided an update on the country’s preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the development of football in the region and the ongoing labour-rights reform efforts which aim to ensure the welfare of migrant workers.
• Within this context, the FIFA President also discussed with the Emir mechanisms in Qatar to ensure the…