On December 18, 2022, the world stood still as Argentina triumphed over France in a historic World Cup final, winning 4-3 in a thrilling match that captivated 1.5 billion viewers. This tournament not only showcased incredible footballing talent but also sparked intense debates over its controversies and innovations, particularly regarding Qatar's stadiums designed for sustainability.

A Record-Breaking Tournament

The 2022 World Cup, the 22nd edition of FIFA's prestigious tournament, marked a significant turning point in the World Cup's history. Notably, it was the last tournament featuring 32 teams, with an expansion to 48 teams set for the 2026 World Cup. To mitigate Qatar's extreme heat, FIFA made a bold decision to host the event in November and December— a first for the tournament.

With a stunning 172 goals, the tournament broke records for scoring in its format, and every participating team managed to find the net, a testament to the competitive spirit of the tournament. The grand finale saw Kylian Mbappé etch his name into history by scoring a hat-trick— a feat last achieved by Geoff Hurst in 1966— while Lionel Messi was awarded the Golden Ball for his outstanding performances.

The Future of Qatar’s Stadiums

Two years on, what has become of Qatar's ambitious football venues? With a modest population of around three million and significant financial resources, Qatar set out to build or renovate eight stadiums across five cities in preparation for the World Cup. The ambition was not just to host an international event but to leave a lasting legacy through sustainable practices. However, the reality has been mixed.

While many of the stadiums were intended to have a second life post-World Cup, the fate of two notable arenas tells a story of innovation struggles.

Stadium 974: A Sustainability Trial Gone Awry?

Stadium 974, designed as a temporary venue constructed from 974 recycled shipping containers, was famously dubbed the world's first reusable stadium. The intention was to dismantle it after the tournament and transport it to a new location, potentially in Africa or South America. However, as of 2024, the stadium remains abandoned in its original location. The promise of sustainability now hangs in the balance, but recent developments offer a glimmer of hope.

In December 2024, Stadium 974 saw a rejuvenation when it hosted matches for the Intercontinental Cup, reigniting discussions about its potential and sustainability aspirations. Will it transform into a beacon of eco-friendly design, or will it fade into another story of World Cup controversy?

Lusail Stadium: The Next Chapter

On December 18, 2024, exactly two years after the World Cup final, Lusail Stadium— the largest stadium in Qatar and the Middle East with a seating capacity of nearly 90,000— will again be the epicenter of football. Plans for its future include a potential reduction in capacity, yet the stadium’s legacy continues as it prepares to host the Intercontinental Cup final between Real Madrid and Mexico's Pachuca.

The world watches closely as Qatar's football venues navigate their post-World Cup destinies. Will these stadiums become iconic symbols of innovation and sustainability, or remain reminders of the controversies that marred the 2022 event? As the FIFA community prepares for the next World Cup in 2026, the spotlight remains firmly on Qatar and its ambitious sports infrastructure— a narrative still unfolding.