The 2022 FIFA World Cup was an international football tournament contested by the men's national teams of FIFA's member associations and 22nd edition of the FIFA World Cup that was won by the Argentina national football team. It took place in Qatar from 20 November to 18 December 2022, making it the first World Cup held in the Arab world and Muslim world, and the second held entirely in Asia after the 2002 tournament in South Korea and Japan. France were the defending champions, having defeated Croatia 4–2 in the 2018 final.
This tournament was the last with 32 participating teams, with the number of teams being increased to 48 for the 2026 edition. To avoid the extremes of Qatar's hot climate,[B] the event was held during November and December.[C] It was held over a reduced time frame of 29 days with 64 matches played in eight venues across five cities. The Qatar national football team entered the event—their first World Cup—automatically as the host's national team, alongside 31 teams determined by the qualification process.
Argentina were crowned the champions after winning the final against the title holder France 4–2 on penalties following a 3–3 draw after extra time. It was Argentina's third title and their first since 1986, as well being the first nation from South America to win the tournament since 2002. French player Kylian Mbappé became the first player to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final since Geoff Hurst in the 1966 final and won the Golden Boot as he scored the most goals (eight) during the tournament. Argentine captain Lionel Messi was voted the tournament's best player, winning the Golden Ball. Teammates Emiliano Martínez and Enzo Fernández won the Golden Glove, awarded to the tournament's best goalkeeper, and the Young Player Award, awarded to the tournament's best young player, respectively. The tournament, with 172 goals, set a new record for the highest number of goals scored with the 32 team format.
The choice to host the World Cup in Qatar attracted significant criticism, with concerns raised over the country's treatment of migrant workers, women and members of the LGBT community, as well as Qatar's climate, lack of a strong football culture, scheduling changes, and allegations of bribery for hosting rights and wider FIFA corruption.
The tournament featured new substitution rules whereby teams could make up to five substitutions in normal time, and an additional substitution in extra time. In addition, it was the first World Cup to feature concussion substitutions, whereby each team was permitted to use a maximum of one concussion substitute during a match. A concussion substitution did not count towards a team's quota of regular substitutions. Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand suffered a concussion in his country's opening match against England and was replaced by Hossein Hosseini. This was the first use of a dedicated concussion substitute during a World Cup
Details of other service activities for guests who come to watch the World Cup 2022 in Qatar.
Education City
There’s more to enjoy than just academia in Education City
Stroll around Mathaf Museum, have a browse of Qatar National Library, find inner peace at Education City and Qatar Foundation mosques, or admire Arabian horses at Al Shaqab Equestrian Center. The library and universities offer lectures, open-mic sessions, poetry readings and more. You may just want to picnic on the grass at Oxygen Park – it’s all there, you decide
The Corniche
A beautiful promenade to walk at any time of the day or night
The Corniche is a 7km pedestrianised strip that follows a sweeping half-moon shape around Doha Bay. Enjoy great views of Qatar’s iconic skyline, lit up on the West Bay side. Stretch your legs, catch the breeze, stop and eat or head for the harbour for a dhow boat trip.
Aspire Park
A verdant city park area – right next to Khalifa International Stadium
Aspire Park is more than a breath of fresh air – it has a large lake, some fantastic wildlife, ornate fountains, tennis courts, soft running tracks and lovely cafes and restaurants. Covering over 88 hectares, it's the perfect place to relax, work out, or let the children run wild.
Al Bidda Park
One of the biggest and most accommodating parks in Qatar
Not only is it pet friendly, but they let you do all sorts of things that many parks around the world don't. You can roller-skate, circuit around the cycle track, barbecue and even ride your horse or camel. The park also features large gymnasiums in addition to outdoor exercise equipment, playgrounds and an outdoor theater that can seat 850 spectators.
Oxygen Park
A lush oasis of energizing parkland set inside Education City
There are two zones to discover – one created for sport and the other for recreation. On the west side you'll find the active zone, with volleyball courts, shaded running tracks and sports pitches. On the northeast side you can enjoy a heritage area, a children's playground, gardens, fountains and an amphitheater.
Purple Island
Discover the natural wonders of Qatar
Purple Island was once a site for dye production that came from thais savignyi – a sea snail that produces dark-red dye. However, today it's a great place to unwind away from the city and explore nature. It's an absolute gem for spotting crabs, fish, wildlife, fossils and plants of all sorts as you wander over the salt marshes.
Katara Hills
Serene and rambling, with hidden gems along the way
One of the largest public parks in Doha, Katara Hills is a great place to enjoy amazing panoramic views. Split into the Southern and Northern Hills, it spans 361,500m2 in all. Go for a hike in the rolling hills, valleys, peaks and cool meadows. Discover the hundreds of trees from different parts of the world – all grown in the hills.
Rent a Bike
Power around under your own steam
With so many beautiful and sizable city parks to visit, it's no wonder bike hire is gaining fans. People are turning to bicycles to bring some outside enjoyment to their fitness routines. You will find hire spots in AI Bidda Park, Education City Park and MIA Park. Just turn up and turn on that pedal power.
Education City Golf Club
Head here if you feel the need to swing a few
At Education City Golf Club, you can choose from 33 holes, with 18, nine and six-hole courses in all. Discover immaculately groomed and conditioned lawns, a state-of-the-art tech-led driving range and swing and putting studios where you can hone your technique. All holes have been designed by double-major winner José María Olazábal in line with USGA standards.
Karting
Lusail Circuit Sports Club has two great tracks for speedy karting action.
The adult track, for ages 15 and older, lets you race 12 karts at the same time. The second is for junior racers aged 8-14. Bring your QID or passport – under 18s will need signed permission from a legal guardian to take part.
Reference
Details of other service activities for guests who come to watch the World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Details of other service activities for guests who come to watch the World Cup 2022 in Qatar. [Online].Available https://www.qatar2022.qa/en/discover-qatar/arts-and-culture