Does it matter that the sun is always out if you're always under a cloud? Qatar says no, at least to some degree. In an effort to combat the extreme heat in Qatar during the 2022 World Cup, Qatar plans on using artificial clouds to shade the stadiums and training grounds. The clouds, controlled by a remote control, are made from a lightweight carbon structure and contain helium gas. They will be one of many measures Qatar will implement to keep the players and spectators cool in heat that is regularly above 100 degrees and can sometimes top 120 degrees.
Artificial Clouds To Shade The 2022 World Cup In Qatar
The heat in Qatar has been a concern since they were first awarded the tournament in December. A schedule heavy on night matches, cooling stations and air conditioned stadiums have all been put forward as possible ways to battle the heat in the desert country that shocked the world by winning the right to host the tournament.
One way to combat the heat that looks unlikely to be implemented would be playing the tournament in the winter. It was an idea initially put forward by FIFA president Sepp Blatter, but he later backed off of it and tournament organizers insist the tournament will be played in June and July, as it always is.
Not everyone is pleased with the plans being put forward by Qatar though. Some, like the international players’ union FIFPro insist that the country is just too hot, stating that Qatar “does not provide suitable conditions for a festival of football such as the World Cup.”
The tournament is still 11 years away so we’ll hear plenty more about this. Oh joy.
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