Washington, D.C. | www.adc.org | December 19, 2022 – The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) congratulates Qatar for hosting the greatest World Cup ever. Throughout the tournament Qatar showed itself to be an incredible host nation. Most beautifully, Qatar provided an opportunity for Arabs around the world to proudly celebrate their culture, faith, and heritage in a way that rose above politics, and silenced anti-Arab and Islamophobic attacks.
ADC Chairman Dr. Safa Rifka said, “We congratulate the State of Qatar for an exemplary job at highlighting our rich culture and heritage. They have set the bar high for the future of the World Cup, and sporting events in general. Their success silenced any attempts to derail this historical moment, and brought positive attention to Arabs, Muslims, and our part of the world.”
There were many great moments over the tournament – none more memorable than the Cinderella run of Morocco, and the strong support shown for Palestine. Throughout the tournament, Palestine was front and center, with the flag of Palestine ever-present on and off the field. The Atlas Lions of Morocco became the first Arab and African Nation to make it to the semi-finals – and proudly carried their culture, heritage, and religion during their run. Images of Moroccan players embracing their mothers after each game dispelled generations of anti-Arab and Islamophobic tropes. These will be the lasting images of this historic World Cup.
ADC Executive Director Abed Ayoub said, “This tournament was an awe-inspiring display of Arab determination and grace achieved by Qatar. Never before has the beauty of our culture, heritage, and warmth been elevated and celebrated on such a global stage. This tournament raised the heads of Arabs and Muslims across the world.”
The 2022 World Cup concluded in thrilling fashion, with Argentina beating France in what many consider the greatest final in the tournament’s history. The 2026 World Cup will be held across the U.S., Mexico and Canada. Hopefully the 2022 World Cup will not be the last in an Arab Nation – Morocco and Egypt both have expressed interest in bidding for the 2030 World Cup.
Read More:
FIFA chief praises Qatar 2022 as ‘best World Cup ever’ (AlJazeera)
Khaled Beydoun: The day the football gods reversed the tide of history (CNN)
Dima Khatib: World Cup 2022: Palestine beats Israel on football’s big stage (AlJazeera)
Tariq Panja: Waving the Flag of the World Cup’s Unofficial Team (NY Times)