South American football chiefs have claimed it is “time to leave controversies behind” in the build-up to the World Cup.
Conmebol, the South American football confederation, issued a statement calling for “unity in support” amid the controversy surrounding the tournament in Qatar. The World Cup has been shrouded in controversy because of the treatment of migrant workers and also fears over the safety of fans from the LGBTQ community.
World governing body FIFA wrote to all 32 nations taking part - including England and Wales - urging them to “focus on the football.” The English FA reacted by joining other national associations in insisting they would continue to speak up and Harry Kane is expected to wear a rainbow armband.
But Conmebol has taken a different view and said in a statement: “Conmebol and its ten member associations join the call for world football unity in support of the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022.
"A country eager to show its hospitality and warmth, magnificent sports venues and 32 prepared teams with their greatest potential. They ensure a tournament that will undoubtedly go down in history.
"As few times in history, human society today needs the powerful message of sport in general and football, the most popular of them, in particular.
"This message is powerful because it is universal, it goes far beyond political or ideological disputes, temporary disagreements and occasional confrontations. It is a message full of optimism, tolerance, inclusion, diversity, union.
"The time has come to leave controversies and controversies behind and value and enjoy a true ecumenical party, eagerly awaited by the entire planet. Let the ball start rolling to bring joy and emotions to everyone!”
The World Cup starts on 20 November and runs until 18 December and it remains to be seen whether fans will attend and travel to Qatar in their usual numbers.
