Every four years, nations from all over the world descend on one location in a celebration of the beautiful game. FIFA World Cups are supposed to be above concerns like geopolitics, political rivalries, and even wars. However, the tournament in Qatar has been embroiled in controversy since it was announced.
From allegations of impropriety in the bidding process, to ‘sportswashing’, to human rights concerns with migrant workers and the LGTBQ+ community, a lot of conversation around the Qatar World Cup has not ‘focused on the football’.
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On this week’s episode of The India Story, Vikram Chandra speaks with Journalist Siddhant Aney, who is in Doha, and relates unexpected ground realities of the controversies surrounding the tournament. Anurava Chauduri, Advisor for Global Football, also opines on the state of football in India, and whether an Indian team - men’s or women’s - will ever make it to the World Cup.
Catch The India Story with Vikram Chandra, Fridays at 8PM.