World Cup chiefs in Qatar have apologised after officials interrupted a live Danish news broadcast in Doha and threatened to break the crew’s camera.
TV2’s Rasmus Tantholdt was confronted by men who told him that, despite the foreign correspondent producing a permit, he was unable to film in the quiet street.
Qatar’s “supreme committee for delivery and legacy” released a statement after the incident on Tuesday to say the channel was “mistakenly interrupted”.
Mr Tantholdt is seen negotiating with officials in front of a roundabout, saying in English: “Why did you invite the world here, why can’t we film… It’s a public place.”
We now got an apology from Qatar International Media Office and from Qatar Supreme Commitee.
— Rasmus Tantholdt TV2 (@RasmusTantholdt) November 15, 2022
This is what happened when we were broadcasting live for @tv2nyhederne from a roundabout today in Doha. But will it happen to other media as well? #FIFAWorldCupQatar2022 pic.twitter.com/NSJj50kLql
Men wearing white Arabic dress are seen jumping in front of the camera to block it.
“You can break the camera, you want to break it?” Mr Tantholdt said to them. “You are threatening us by smashing the camera?”
The reporter acknowledged later on that an apology had been made.
He tweeted: “But will it happen to other media as well?”
The committee’s statement read: “Upon inspection of the crew’s valid tournament accreditation and filming permit, an apology was made to the broadcaster by on-site security before the crew resumed their activity.”
Qatar will kick off the World Cup proceedings on Sunday with their game against Ecuador.
The Gulf state has faced huge criticism over its human rights record, treatment of migrants and alleged suppression of whistleblowers during the construction of the stadiums since it was awarded rights to host the competition in 2010.
Danish players could wear a third choice black shirt when they play group games against France, Australia and Tunisia in “mourning” of workers who have died.
The Scandinavian country has been one of the biggest critics of Fifa’s choice of World Cup host and are also set to convey their opposition with a toned down team crest and sportswear logo when they play.
