Qatar to reinstall Zidane's 'Headbutt' statue ahead of 2022 FIFA World Cup

Zinedine Zidane's sculpture of the infamous 'headbutt' incident of the 2006 FIFA World Cup final match is set to be re-installed after 9 years, confirmed the head of the Qatar museum on Monday. 

The 5-meter tall bronze sculpture called 'Coup de Tete' that was made by Algerian-born French artist Adel Abdessemed was removed from the Doha seafront back in 2013 after protests erupted in the Gulf country. The Muslim community in Qatar opposed the idea of idolatry and some others wanted it to be removed because it promoted violence. 

However, the authorities have decided to reinstall it at a new sports museum in Doha which is set to host the football World Cup later this year. Evolution happens in society, with time people understand it and get used to it, Qatar Museums chairperson Sheikha al Mayassa al Thani said, further highlighting that the purpose of remounting the artwork was to bring attention to 'stress on athletes and the importance of dealing with mental issues'

The sculpture depicts the final moments of the final match between Italy and France when the French captain headbutted Marco Materazzi, which was also his last act as a professional footballer. Italy eventually won the match after Zidane was given a red card for his violent conduct.