Qatar could ban unvaccinated stars from 2022 World Cup despite refusals so far
Qatar is pushing for a rule that would force all players taking part in the 2022 World Cup to get the Covid-19 vaccine.
Supporters attending the tournament have already been informed they must be fully vaccinated if they wish to travel to the Gulf nation next November.
And now the controversial hosts want the same rule to be applied to those taking part in the action, according to The Athletic.
Debate surrounding footballers getting jabbed has rumbled on in recent months but nothing has been made compulsory in the Premier League.
Instead, regular testing has been the approach adopted to prevent the spread.
Some have refused the jab, with Newcastle boss Steve Bruce and Arsenal's Mikel Arteta among those who said some of their players had chosen not to.
Qatar has vaccinated around 82% of their population, equating to 4.6million vaccines, which is one of the highest rates in the world.
The country is a tourism destination and is also densely populated. Therefore, those in charge are very conscious of the potential impact the tournament could have.
If they get their way it could see some stars miss out due to their personal choice of not getting the vaccine administered.
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The report states talks are ongoing between stakeholders in an attempt to reach a solution which appeases all parties and won't impact on the tournament.
Reporting negative tests every three days is a potential alternative but the Qataris also tried to introduce compulsory vaccines for the Arab Cup, which is taking place this November and is a test event for the World Cup.
They failed in their attempts but fans still have to be fully protected. Their prime minister said in June they were trying to secure another million doses to immunise supporters.
A FIFA spokesman told The Athletic : “In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, Qatar, as the host country, will provide the safeguards required to protect the health and safety of all involved in the competition.
"All attendees must follow the travel advice from the Qatari authorities and the latest guidance from the Ministry of Public Health.
"Full information on COVID-19 safety measures will be communicated to all client groups as we approach the competition.”
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