Change of political shape: FBI joins FIFA in Qatar, Emir and Putin declare their love

October 14 - In a remarkable turnaround, the FBI and FIFA have teamed up to protect this winter's World Cup in Qatar from possible crimes, including match-fixing.

Once seen as the sworn enemy of Zurich, the US police are back, this time to side with the global federation rather than arrest those responsible.

FIFA is also organizing the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The FBI "as the primary law enforcement and investigative agency of the United States will join the group to lend its experience and expertise, also in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup," the agency said. FIFA.

The new cooperation comes after the FBI and its investigations sparked the FIFAgate scandal in 2015 which saw more than 40 football officials charged and ultimately led to the departure of FIFA President Sepp Blatter.

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On Thursday, Qatar also strengthened its ties with 2018 World Cup hosts Russia, which became an international pariah after its invasion of Ukraine.

The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, said: "After Russia achieved great success in hosting the 2018 World Cup, Russian friends gave great support to the Qatar, particularly in terms of organization, with the 2022 World Cup Organizing Committee.

“We thank you for that and we are proud of this relationship. This will continue until the end of the World Cup. I am very happy to see you, Mr. President. Thank you.”

Putin promised the emir that Russia "is doing everything it can to transfer the experience of preparing for the World Cup".

He added, "I'm sure it will be a hit."

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