May 13 – A media investigation has revealed that a number of FIFA-recommended hotels in Qatar have refused to accept LGBTQ+ guests despite previous claims that those of all gender persuasions would be welcomed for the World Cup.
Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar and many fans have already bought tickets and started to make accommodation arrangements.
But a joint Scandinavian media investigation found that fans posing as being gay received a number of unwelcoming responses after contacting 69 hotels.
Three hotels simply refused to accept the reservation, with one suggested it would be against hotel policy to do so, according to the survey.
A response from one unnmamed hotel, shared by NRK in Norway, read: “Thank you for your inquiry, but unfortunately we have to inform you that we cannot give you a room due to the hotel’s policy. Should there be anything more, do not hesitate to get in touch. With best regards.”
The journalists were able to make inquiries with no objections at 33 other hotels recommended by Fifa, while some either failed to respond, failed to continue dialogue after an initial exchange or are currently operating as Covid quarantine hotels.
Following the revelations, Jakob Jensen, CEO of the Danish Football Association (DBU), commented: “We find this disappointing. It is disappointing for the supporters who will travel to the World Cup. That they cannot feel safe in getting a hotel, no matter what sexuality they have. It is completely irrelevant what kind of orientation you have.”
In an email to NRK, Fifa responded by saying it was “confident that all necessary measures will be in place for LGBT+ supporters, so that they, like everyone else, can feel welcome and safe during the championship.”
FIFA also stressed that any form of discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity is strictly prohibited.”
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