FIFA president Gianni Infantino has paid tribute to US journalist Grant Wahl, who has died at the Qatar World Cup.
Wahl had written on Monday that he had visited a hospital in Qatar after feeling unwell, died suddenly while reporting on the quarter-final match between Argentina and the Netherlands at the Lusail Stadium, with witnesses claiming that he fell back in his seat as fellow reporters called for assistance.
Wahl's brother Eric has claimed that Grant could have been killed after he had "received death threats" after he wore a rainbow flag t-shirt to a match earlier in the competition.
Infantino said: "It is with disbelief and immense sadness that I have been made aware of the passing of renowned sports journalist Grant Wahl, while reporting on a quarter-final match during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
"Only some days ago, Grant was recognised by FIFA and AIPS for his contribution to reporting on eight consecutive FIFA World Cups, and his career also included attendance at several FIFA Women's World Cups, as well as a host of other international sporting events.
"His love for football was immense and his reporting will be missed by all who follow the global game.
"On behalf of FIFA and the football community, we express our sincerest condolences to his wife Celine, his family, and his friends at this most difficult time."
Wahl's brother Eric, who is gay, has appealed for information on the death on Instagram, believing that it could be linked to Grant wearing a rainbow t-shirt at the USA vs Wales match earlier in the tournament.
Eric said: "I am Grant Wahl’s brother I am gay I am the reason he wore the rainbow shirt to the World Cup.
"My brother was healthy, he told me he received death threats, I do not believe my brother just died, I believe he was killed and I just beg for any help."
The US Soccer federation released a statement, which read: "The entire US soccer family is heartbroken to learn that we have lost Grant Wahl.
"Fans of soccer and journalism of the highest quality knew we could always count on Grant to deliver insightful and entertaining stories about our game, and its major protagonists: Teams, players, coaches, and the many personalities that make soccer unlike any sport.
"Here in the United States, Grant's passion for soccer and commitment to elevating its profile across our sporting landscape played a major role in helping to drive interest in and respect for our beautiful game.
"As important, Grant's belief in the power of the game to advance human rights was. and will remain, an inspiration to all."
"Grant made soccer his life's work, and we are devastated that he and his brilliant writing will no longer be with us.
"US Soccer sends its sincerest condolences to Grant's wife, Dr Celine Gounder, and all of his family members, friends and colleagues in the media, and we thank Grant for his tremendous dedication to and impact on our game in the United States.
"His writing and the stories he told will live on."
