Qatar on Sunday opened the Middle East’s first FIFA World Cup before global leaders and soccer fans who have poured into this energy-rich nation after it was battered by a regional boycott and international criticism.
With American actor Morgan Freeman’s dulcet voice and an Arabian theme with camels, the opening ceremony began with a promise of “everyone is welcome.”
AP says Regardless of the outcome of Qatar versus Ecuador on the pitch, Doha already has drawn Saudi Arabia’s powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the opening ceremony and inaugural match of the tournament.
That Prince Mohammed, whose nation had closed Qatar’s only land border to the world through the kingdom over a yearslong political dispute, will attend shows how far the rapprochement between the two nations has gone.
According to Al Jazeera, the opening ceremony closed with a bang, as fireworks fill the night sky above the stadium.
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani spoke at the opening ceremony and welcomed fans from all over the world.
“How beautiful it is for people to put aside what divides them in order to celebrate their diversity,” he said.
“Let this tournament be full of inspiring days of goodness and hope, and welcome everyone to the world in Doha.”
Hosts Qatar will face Ecuador at 7pm (16:00 GMT) for the opening match.