Cost of Qatar World Cup could reach £138bn claims analyst

The total bill for holding the 2022 World Cup in Qatar could be as much as £138billion, according a leading analyst.

Dr Nicola Ritter, a German legal and financial analyst, told an investors' summit held in Munich that £107billion would be spent on stadiums and facilities plus a further £31billion on transport infrastructure, according to Construction News.

Ritter said £30billion would be spent on build air-conditioned stadia - at least 12 will be needed - with £48billion on training facilities and accommodation for players and fans.

A further £28billion will be spent on creating a new city called Lusail which will surround the stadium which hosts the opening and final matches of the tournament.

Qatar beat bids by the USA, Australia, Japan and Korea to win the right to host the tournament in 11 years' time.

The capital city Doha is also bidding to stage the 2020 Olympics and the 2017 world athletics championships.

Planned transport improvements include expanding the New Doha International Airport, constructing the new Doha port where it is planned some fans will be accommodated on cruise ships.