Qatar 2022 CEO assures Indian fans not to worry over price hikes during World Cup

FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar's chief executive officer Nasser Al Khater has assured Indian fans who will be traveling for the games that they don't need to worry regarding an increase in cost of accomodation when they arrive at the tournament in November and December.

There have been instances of many fans reacting on social media with regards to the highly expensive accomodation setup for people visiting the country for the global tournament.

These reactions have caught the eye of the organisers, who have now stated that they are committed to offering every fan the opportunity to enjoy an affordable World Cup.

Speaking to Times of India, Al Khater said, "Because of the geographical proximity and historical people-to-people linkages between India and the GCC region, Qatar 2022 is perceived by many Indian football fans as the unique opportunity to experience the FIFA World Cup from up close.

"This has been illustrated by Indian residents emerging in the top 10 of the first phase of ticketing. I would like to assure Indian fans that we will make the prices as affordable as possible for everyone."

Over one million fans are expected to attend the World Cup collectively later this year and Al Khater wants to avoid a repeat of last minute price hikes as seen in previous international tournaments.

"We know there have been price hikes in previous tournaments to take advantage of the fans who have bought tickets. That's something we have always been determined to avoid," he said.

FIFA are reported to have already sold over 800,000 matchday tickets in the initial phase and India ranks seventh among countries where fans have bought the most.