AFC delegation inspects proposed stadiums for 2027 Asian Cup
Gulf Times
Asian Football Confederation delegation during its five-day inspection visit to Doha.
The AFC delegation concluded its five-day inspection visit to Doha to check on the latest preparations of the country regarding its bid to host the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, with the official declaration of the winning bid approaching. During the visit, the AFC delegation was briefed on Qatar’s readiness, following their on-ground inspection of many facilities and a review of all plans to host the 2027 tournament should hosting rights be accorded to Qatar. On their tour, the delegation was guided by representatives of the Qatar Football Association (QFA) and the local AFC Asian Cup 2027 bidding committee. The QFA reaffirmed its commitment to meeting all hosting requirements in accordance with AFC timelines, and in line with the hosting terms and standards. The AFC delegation observed and were provided with an in-depth understanding of the proposed operations across various aspects of organisation, these included stadiums, ticketing, information technology, advertising and marketing, radio and television broadcasting, hospitality, and safety & security measures. The delegation inspected six of the eight fully equipped stadiums dedicated for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: Al Bayt Stadium, Al Thumama Stadium, Stadium 974, Lusail Stadium, Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium and Al Janoub Stadium. They also inspected some of the international training facilities at Al Ersal and Aspire. The delegation undertook visits to various departments of the Aspire Foundation – such as Aspetar Hospital – as well as the National and Tournament Command Centre, Metro facilities, Hamad Medical City, the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center and the Qatar National Convention Center. In addition, they visited some of the hotels and other vital facilities designated for the teams. Qatar’s 2027 bid is in competition with three other countries in the race to host the Asian mega-event: India, Saudi Arabia and Iran. The AFC is expected to announce the winning bid during the first quarter of 2022, following a vote by AFC Member Associations during the AFC Congress. The QFA submitted the first part of the bid file on 26th August last year, followed by the second part of the file – including legal requirements – on 29th October, and the third part, containing the required government guarantees on 26th November. The final file – delivered on 15th December 2021 – served to complete bidding formalities, supported by material on the legacy of staging major continental and international sporting events and tournaments.
