Qatari Fans Receive All-Expenses-Paid Trip to World Cup in Canada

VANCOUVER, British Columbia (AP) — A spirited group of supporters from Qatar has arrived in North America to cheer on their underdog team at the World Cup, thanks to an all-expenses-paid initiative. Approximately 1,000 fans flew to Vancouver on chartered flights arranged by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, just ahead of their match against Canada on Thursday.

These enthusiastic fans are enjoying luxurious accommodations at prominent hotels such as the Fairmont and the JW Marriott Parq. As they roam downtown Vancouver, they have been showcasing their culture by playing traditional darbuka drums, adding to the festive atmosphere.

"First of all I would like to thank everyone who went the extra mile and made the journey out here," expressed captain Abdulaziz Hatem. "We are very aware of the responsibility. We are going to do whatever it takes for them to leave the stadium happy and for them to be proud of us."

This initiative, known as the “Qatari Fans Delegation Program,” is a collaborative effort between Qatar's Social and Sport Contribution Fund and its soccer federation. The program covers transportation, lodging, and various amenities, with the intent of fostering a lively atmosphere at the matches, which could inspire the players to perform their best.

In addition to the dedicated fans, Qatari students studying in the U.S. and Canada have also been invited to join the excitement. While the Qatari supporters will be a vibrant presence, they are expected to face a large crowd of Canadian fans clad in red at BC Place.

Qatar, which has a population of about 3.2 million and is known for its oil and natural gas exports, previously hosted the World Cup in 2022. Their debut in that tournament was marked by a disappointing outcome, as the nation became the first host to lose all group stage matches. However, they have shown improvement this time, with Boualem Khoukhi scoring a late equalizer in a 1-1 draw against Switzerland in Santa Clara, California. Canada also secured its first World Cup point with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina last Friday in Toronto, thanks to a goal from Cyle Larin in the 78th minute.