The organizers of the World Cup in Qatar had previously planned a welfare initiative to provide international spectators with all-round support, including free flights, accommodation and tickets for the opening match, and promised to provide a daily meal allowance of about £60 (about HK$558). The motivation behind the initiative was apparently the expectation that they would exude enthusiasm for the tournament in front of the cameras and spread positive messages through social media. However, the move has sparked controversy over the faking of enthusiasm and has been widely criticized by mainstream media around the world.
According to the Guardian, after the so-called "fake fans" faced public pressure, the Qatari authorities withdrew the subsidized meals and asked them to take care of their own food, even though they still paid for their flights, accommodation and tickets for the opening match. It is understood that the participants will still depart as planned, but what was once a free trip has turned into a trip that requires additional expenses, which will undoubtedly cause disruption to their budgets and disappointment.
