Top Euro leagues warn FIFA over Qatar World Cup decision

President of FIFA, Joseph Blatter,

London: Europe’s top football leagues have warned FIFA not to rush a decision on staging the the 2022 World Cup in Qatar in winter.

The Association of the European Professional Football Leagues (EPFL), which includes the English Premier League, has called for this to be postponed pending a full investigation into the effects of such a move, the Skysports reported Tuesday.

The EPFL said in a statement: “The feasibility of any change to the calendar involves every aspect of football organisation across all countries, from the grass-roots to the major national representative tournaments and the leagues.

“Any suggestion of staging the World Cup at a time other than the traditional period is a crucial issue for the European Leagues considering the impact on the organisation of domestic championships throughout Europe, and of the international football calendar around the world.

“The EPFL is of the view that no hasty decision shall be made by the FIFA executive committee Oct 3-4.”

The statement adds “such an important decision cannot be rushed with artificial deadlines” and says that a proper medical assessment on the impact of the heat on players and supporters should take place.