THE FIFA World Cup Qatar opening ceremony is scheduled to begin at 5 pm on Sunday, November 20, at the 60,000-capacity Al Bayt Stadium—two hours before the Qatar vs Ecuador opening fixture, which begins at 7 pm.
Traditionally, the tournament’s official mascot La’eeb is expected to carry out the ceremonial first kick of the competition.
During the Host Country Tournament Readiness Press Conference on Thursday, Khaled Al Mawlawi, Deputy Director General for Marketing, Communication, and Tournament Experience for the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy said: “I advise that all ticket holders arrive at the stadium to attend the opening ceremony two to three hours before the game begins. The opening ceremony will begin at 5 pm.” —Ikoli Victor page 9
