(ATR) Qatar’s first World Cup stadium is ready to host matches, more than five years before the tournament begins.
Khalifa International Stadium was originally built in 1976 and had been renovated in 2006. The latest extensive renovations include expanding the seating to more than 40,000 people and adding sustainable cooling technology to keep players and fans comfortable.
The cooling system, promised by Qatar during its successful bid to host the World Cup, will keep the pitch at 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit) and the stands at 24-28 degrees Celsius (75-82 degrees Fahrenheit) year-round.
Other new features include a larger roof that will cover the entire spectator area, the addition of 61 guest suites, upgrades to the changing rooms, VIP areas and media tribune, and the installation of a grass turf developed in Qatar to stand up to the harsh hot climate in the region.
"The completion of our first stadium more than five years before the Qatar World Cup begins is an important milestone that reflects our determination to deliver a tournament the entire Arab world is proud to be a part of," Sheikh Hassan Al Thawadi said in a statement.
Al Thawadi is the Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), the organization responsible for the infrastructure for the 2022 World Cup.
"As we promised in our bid, our innovative stadiums offer an unrivalled experience to fans and players alike. I’m proud we can show these off to the world and welcome fans with the hospitality this World Cup will be remembered for."
The newly-renovated stadium will be put to immediate use, hosting the 2017 Emir Cup final this Friday.
The stadium will also host the Gulf Cup in December this year and the 2019 IAAF World Championships in Athletics before the FIFA World Cup kicks off on November 21, 2022.
The Khalifa International Stadium will be used as a venue through the quarterfinals of the World Cup.
Homepage photo:Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC)
Written by Gerard Farek
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