The roar of Qatari supporters filled the stadium when Qatar played against Senegal on Friday at the FIFA World Cup. Fans donned maroon shirts written “Qatar” in both English and Arabic while they chanted “Play, the Maroon” in Arabic in support of the Qatari football team.
These supporters were ultras from Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Lebanon. However, the Lebanese ultras stunned the crowd at Al Thumama Stadium with their enthusiasm.
According to the New York Times, “young Lebanese fans were offered an extraordinary deal: free flights, accommodations, match tickets, and food, plus a small stipend, to bring some ultra culture to Qatar’s World Cup games.”
The Lebanese ultras landed in Qatar in the middle of October to practice their choreography and chants, as well as Qatar’s national anthem.
Lebanon is currently experiencing one of its worst economic crises, which has led to high unemployment and inflation. Therefore, this offer from Qatar came as a good opportunity for Lebanese football fans to make money while enjoying the World Cup experience.
