In the 2022 world cup, the worlds biggest football tournament, is proving to be harmful as the event draws closer. Scheduled to start on November 20, FIFA organizers have continued to face criticism about the tournament.
Artists who were publicized to perform at the opening ceremony are now taking a stand and denying to perform. This is due to the death of migrants workers when creating the stadium as well as the country’s views on the LGBTQ community , which is illegal in Qatar.
Qatar’s ministry said they will allow the LGBTQ community but warned against public displays on affection, though they have claimed that everyone , no matter their sexual orientation or background, is welcome.
According to news sources, Dua Lipa who was rumored to perform at Qatar, has confirmed that she will not be playing a gig nor attending the world cup in Qatar.
Dua Lipa
Dua Lipa issued a statement on Sunday confirming in Qatar, after a ” lot of speculations” that the Londoner would play a concert there.
She joins a growing list of celebrities and sport stars to confirm they will not be attending at the host Gulf State.
“There is currently a lot of speculation that I will be performing at the opening ceremony of the world cup in Qatar. I will not be performing … nor have I ever been involved in any negotiation to perform,” Dua said , adding that she will be cheering England on from a far.
Rod Stewart, an artist has also reveled he turned down more than $1 million to play a gig in the country and even said Iran should not be allowed to take part after supplying arms to Russia.
Shakira, who sang the 2010World Cup song ‘ Waka Waka’ was also set to perform but due to personal reasons she will not.
Qatar has faced much criticism from across the globe for its stance on LGBTQ rights and the abuse of migrant workers of whom up to 6500 have died according to some reports.
Other Artists
FIFA has been condemned in recent days for issuing a letter to all 32 competing teams asking players to ” let football take the stage” and not focus on political issues at the tournament.
England manager, Gareth Southgate has said that his players will speak out about human rights abuses during the tournament saying, ” we have always spoken about issues we think should be talked about particularly the ones we feel we can affect.”
Both Wales and England have committed to wearing rainbow armbands during matches as a sign of solidarity with the LGBTQ community.
Jungkook, one of the performing artist and member of K-pop band BTS has received criticism and hatred for not cancelling his visit . With photos of him in Qatar trending on social media , fans are not happy that he hasn’t denied the opportunity.
Other artists who will be performing include; Clean Bandit, Sean Paul, Gims, Dj Aseel and others.
Also read :Opening Ceremony In 2022 World Cup
