Fifa boss Sepp Blatter has laughed off the matter of what gay fans should do during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, given that homosexuality is illegal in the country.
Blatter was speaking at a press conference in Johannesburg, South Africa, discussing the legacy of the World Cup 2010.
Homosexuality is banned in Qatar, leading gay rights groups to question the choice of host for the World Cup 2022.
However when Blatter was asked what he would say to gay football fans who want to go to Qatar for the 2022 competition, the Fifa head laughed and said:
“I would say they should refrain from any sexual activities.”
The president of soccer’s international governing body went on to say that he didn’t expect any problems with discrimination, adding: “we are living in a world of freedom.”
However not everyone will be convinced and criticisms continue to be levied against Fifa for its choice of Islamic Qatar as host for the World Cup 2022.
Drinking, as well as homosexuality, is illegal in Qatar, although there will be designated drinking areas during the World Cup.
Scorching temperatures have also been cited as a problem with Qatar hosting the 2022 tournament.
