Clifford Chance to advise on Qatar 2022

International law firm Clifford Chance is to advise Qatar in the run-up to its hosting of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, including on the development of the tournament’s main stadium.

In a statement, Clifford Chance said it had been mandated by the organiser’s Supreme Committee to assist with its technical programme, which includes advising on procurement and development of infrastructure.

The firm has previously conducted similar work for tournaments including the London 2012 Olympic Games and the Euro 2012 competition in Poland in the same year.

"We are delighted to have been appointed by the Supreme Committee on this landmark infrastructure programme for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and we are excited to be working on a project of this magnitude,” said Richard Parris, Doha office managing partner.

“It is also a privilege to be working on a high profile project such as the Iconic Stadium which will set the benchmark for stadium development,” he added.

To host the event Qatar is planning or renovating 12 dedicated stadia, including the 86,000-seater Lusail Iconic Stadium, which will host the final.

Qatar’s spending on the 2022 World Cup will increase to US$115bn between now and 2022, according to a study published by Standard Chartered this week.

The government has already but out to tender a number of roads and sewerage development projects as part of a US$20bn programme for the next five year.

Critics have questioned whether Qatar has the necessary infrastructure to stage the event and countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Oman and Kuwait could be called upon to help by hosting matches and providing accommodation for the massive number of fans expected to attend.