Why FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on Sunday, will be one of its kind

Qatar on yellow card with accusations of sportswashing, curbs on fan freedom; many high-profile players to retire

As Qatar takes on Ecuador at the Al Bayt Stadium in the inaugural match of the FIFA World Cup 2022 on Sunday, the uncertainty off the pitch has made more noise than the vuvuzelas in the 2010 edition of the tournament.

Football teams, sport stars, supporters, dignitaries and the media will head to Qatar for the sporting extravaganza, and the authorities have left no stone unturned to ensure it is one. This World Cup is touted to be the most expensive ever, with Qatar paying $220 billion to host it (see box). To put that in perspective, the 2006 World