Qatar hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the first World Cup held in the Arab world. The tournament ran from 20 November to 18 December 2022 and used eight stadiums in and around Doha, including Lusail Stadium, where the final was played.
Qatar’s selection was announced by FIFA in December 2010. Because the country’s summer temperatures can be extreme, the competition was moved from its usual June-July window to late autumn. It was also the first World Cup staged in November and December and the first organized in the Middle East.
Argentina won the final against France on penalties after a 3–3 draw, with Lionel Messi named player of the tournament. Qatar became the first host nation to lose its opening match, falling 2–0 to Ecuador. The compact geography allowed supporters to stay in one base location while attending matches.