Qatar has paid football’s world and European champions Spain over US$4m to relocate its friendly match against Uruguay next month to Doha.
Uruguay FA president Sebastian Bauza confirmed to reporters the friendly match on February 6, which was originally to take place in Portugal, would be moved to the Qatari capital.
The move is part of the oil and gas-rich Gulf state’s bid to promote its football credentials ahead of its hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2022.
As compensation, the Spanish Federation will be paid €3m (US$4m) and a share of the profits.
Qatar, which is hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2022, is aiming to use the showcase to promote its facilities.
The Gulf state is planning to invest nearly US$100m in infrastructure projects in the run up to the hosting of the tournament, which will the first time the World Cup will be staged in the Middle East.
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