This archive report was first published on 28 September 2019.
As the world watches, Qatar is gearing up to host the World Athletics Championships, a crucial test of its readiness to host the 2022 Fifa World Cup. The championships, which take place from September 27 to October 6, 2019, will be held at the Khalifa Stadium in Doha, the same venue that will host the opening and closing matches of the 2022 Fifa World Cup.
The championships will put Qatar's transport infrastructure, hospitality sector, and local enthusiasm to the test, with the country pulling out all stops to ensure a successful event. The International Federation of Athletics Federations (IAAF) has chosen Qatar as the host nation, and the country is determined to make a good impression.
Qatar's neighbors, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain, imposed a blockade on the country in June 2017, citing Qatar's support for terrorism and its ties to the Muslim Brotherhood. The blockade has had a significant impact on Qatar's economy, with the country forced to import fresh fruits and vegetables by air and build its own capacity to grow food.
Despite the challenges posed by the blockade, Qataris have rallied around their country, with many speaking highly of their nation and its resilience. The country's football fans, in particular, are excited about the upcoming championships, with many remembering the time Kenya's all-time leading goal scorer, Dennis 'the Menace' Oliech, played for Qatar's top-flight football league club Al Arabi.
