Qatar World Cup: ‘Fake Fans’ Claims Highlight Surreal Atmosphere, TikTok Footage Emerges Of Meagre Lodgings
deadline.comDays out from the start of FIFA’s soccer World Cup in Qatar, things are taking a turn for the surreal. Over the past 24 hours, the tournament’s organizers have rejected accusations of fake fans parading in the streets in Doha, while a social media video of basic-looking accommodation has been getting millions of hits.
Videos posted on TikTok channel Qatari Living appear to show local fans cheering in a co-ordinated manner while dressed in England, Argentina and Brazil merchandise.
This led to suggestions they had been paid but reporters for The Guardian and The Times have spoken with several supporters and report their enthusiasm and knowledge for the sport seems genuine.
One England-supporting man from Kerala told The Guardian the claims he and others had been paid were “fake news.”Huge number of Indian ex-pats outside the England hotel, awaiting the team’s arrival in Qatar.
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