A football supporter dubbed the World Cup's 'sexiest fan' has hit the headlines after wearing a revealing swimsuit in Qatar, despite the country's strict laws.
Ivana Knoll has turned heads by sporting a Croatian-themed outfit around the conservative streets of Doha. The former Miss Croatia has posted images of her risky photoshoot on Instagram for her 608,000 followers to see, tagging FIFA in the process.
Knoll also wore a revealing outfit to the Al Bayt Stadium on Wednesday, as Croatia endured a goalless draw against Morocco. Croatia fans are hoping Zlatko Dalic's side can do something special in Qatar after reaching the World Cup final in Russia four years ago.
Knoll is at risk of being arrested or deported by wearing revealing clothes in public. Controversial hosts Qatar asked fans - both male and female - not to wear "excessively revealing clothing" in the country during the World Cup, which ends on December 18.
"Visitors are expected to show respect for local culture by avoiding excessively revealing clothing in public," stated Qatar's tourism board ahead of the tournament. "It is generally recommended for men and women to ensure their shoulders and knees are covered."
This message is repeated on the UK government's website. It reads, "You should dress modestly when in public, including while driving. Women must cover their shoulders and avoid wearing short skirts.
What do you make of Ivana Knoll's Instagram posts? Let us know in the comments below!
"Both men and women are advised not to wear shorts or sleeveless tops, when going to government buildings, health care facilities or malls. If you do not dress modestly, you may be asked to leave or be denied entry to these locations."
Knoll is at risk of being contacted by Qatari police due to the public nature of her photoshoots. If police don't spot the photoshoots while they're happening on the streets, they may notice them by looking at her Instagram.
Several fans have complained on Knoll's Instagram feed. She's been accused of showing "zero respect in another country" and told to "respect our customs, traditions and religion". One supporter told her, "Shame on you, respect others' culture."
Yet others have praised Knoll for rebelling against Qatar's strict laws. As reported by Amnesty International, women continue to face "discrimination in law and practice". Women live under the guardianship system, which sees them legally tied to a relative or husband.
Women need their guardian's permission to make key life decisions, such as to marry, study abroad or work in certain jobs. Furthermore, divorced women are not allowed to act as their children's guardian. Same-sex relationships are also outlawed in Qatar.
Knoll is one of Croatia's most famous models and an avid football fan, as she attended previous World Cups in Brazil and Russia. Croatia's campaign in Qatar continues on Sunday, when they face Canada at the Khalifa International Stadium. Their final group game is against Belgium at the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium on Thursday.
