The 2022 FIFA World Cup has started amidst controversy over Qatar's human rights record and treatment of migrant workers.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino delivered an hour-long speech on the eve of the tournament's start, drawing condemnation from human rights groups for accusing Western critics of Qatar's human rights record of hypocrisy.
He also made tone-deaf comments about minority groups and criticised media coverage of Qatar's issues.
Infantino's speech was described as "crass" and an "insult" by some sources, while others described it as an "extraordinary monologue" or "explosive tirade".
On Saturday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino delivered a speech on the eve of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Infantino accused Western critics of Qatar's human rights record of hypocrisy, stating that "What we Europeans have been doing for the last 3,000 years, we should be apologizing for the next 3,000 years before starting to give moral lessons.
" His comments drew condemnation from human rights groups who called the speech "crass" and an "insult" to migrant workers.
Other controversies surround the 2022 World Cup.
Qatar has been criticised for its treatment of migrant workers, with some describing it as akin to modern slavery.
The country also recently rescinded its agreement to sell alcohol in stadiums for the tournament, drawing criticism from some fans.
Infantino's speech was also criticised for being tone-deaf and alienating to minority groups who have been harmed by Qatar's policies.
Despite the controversy, the tournament is set to go ahead with the opening match played on Sunday between Qatar and Ecuador.