A Qatari man covering the World Cup in his homeland died suddenly over the weekend, according to reports in the Middle East.
Khalid al-Misslami was a photojournalist working for Al Kass TV, a sports broadcaster in the Gulf state, and is believed to have passed away on Saturday. Local outlet the Gulf Times wrote on Twitter : "Al Kass TV photojournalist Khalid al-Misslam passed away recently.
"Al-Misslam, a Qatari, died suddenly while covering the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. We believe in Allah's mercy and forgiveness for him, and send our deepest condolences to his family."
Al Kass TV confirmed the news in a live broadcast on one of their eight channels over he weekend, while they appear to be waiting for updates on the cause of Al-Misslam's death.
There was more tragedy on Saturday when leading American sports writer Graht Wahl died after collapsing during the quarter-final between Netherlands and Argentina. The 48-year-old was said to have fallen back in his seat at Lusail Iconic Stadium and was attended by medical staff who performed CPR and used an automatic chest compressor before his death was announced following a reported heart attack.
Wahl was reporting on his eighth World Cup and said on Monday, nearly a week before his death, that he had visited a hospital in Qatar while feeling unwell. His brother, Eric, has made the accusation the journalist was killed because of his comments on the Qatari regime's much-criticised stance on LGBT rights.
Earlier in the tournament, Wahl was refused entry to a stadium while wearing a rainbow T-shirt. In an Instagram video which has since been deleted, his brother said: "My name is Eric Wahl. I live in Seattle, Washington. I am Grant Wahl's brother. I'm gay.
"I'm the reason he wore the rainbow shirt to the World Cup. My brother was healthy. He told me he received death threats. I do not believe my brother just died. I believe he was killed. And I just beg for any help."
Wahl's body is due to be flown back to the United States on Monday and the cause of death will be determined by an autopsy. FIFA president Gianni Infantino reacted to the news of his passing by saying: "It is with disbelief and immense sadness that I have been made aware of the passing of renowned sports journalist Grant Wahl, while reporting on a quarter-final match during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
"Only some days ago, Grant was recognised by FIFA and AIPS for his contribution to reporting on eight consecutive FIFA World Cups, and his career also included attendance at several FIFA Women's World Cups, as well as a host of other international sporting events. His love for football was immense and his reporting will be missed by all who follow the global game.
"On behalf of FIFA and the football community, we express our sincerest condolences to his wife Celine, his family, and his friends at this most difficult time."
