Content
Skip to Main ContentAccessibility Help
Soccer

Qatar World Cup: UEFA OK with Dec. 23 final

UEFA says it supports playing the 2022 World Cup final on Dec. 23 to help protect its own international qualifying matches. But the proposal to FIFA angered British soccer officials, who feel their traditionally busy Christmas holiday program is under threat.

British officials not happy

The Associated Press ·
The 2022 World Cup in Qatar will take place in November and December to avoid the country's brutal summer heat. (Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

UEFA says it supports playing the 2022 World Cup final on Dec. 23 to help protect its own international qualifying matches.

The proposal to FIFA angered British football officials, who feel their traditionally busy Christmas holiday program is under threat.

UEFA says it prefers Friday, Dec. 23, because a final several days earlier in Qatar "would have more impact on European qualifiers."

Last year, UEFA launched the Nations League competition. Group matches are planned from September to November in even-numbered years.

UEFA also notes that Friday is suitable for the final because it is "a weekend [day] in Qatar."

The 2022 World Cup dates will be approved by the FIFA executive committee next month.

FIFA wants a shorter 28-day tournament within the Nov. 19-Dec. 23 period.

CBC's Journalistic Standards and Practices|About CBC Sports
Corrections and clarifications|

Related Stories