FIFA provide official attendance and capacity figures for 2022 World Cup

FIFA have clarified the attendance figures at the 2022 World Cup, amidst suggestions that people aren’t interested in the competition anymore. There have been several spots of empty seats in stadiums in Qatar. And this was seen in the opening game as well, with fans leaving at half time. 

There were presumptions that the attendance at the World Cup was quite low as a result. But the official FIFA figures show that such is not the case. 

FIFA clarify doubts surrounding World Cup attendance figures 

“Official figures show that the average overall match attendance stands at an impressive 94 percent compared to stadium capacities for the event,” a FIFA statement said.

“The highest match attendance of the tournament was the game at Lusail Stadium on 24 November, with 88,103 there to see Brazil beat Serbia 2-0.” 

The governing body has also shed light on the capacities of the different stadiums. 

“While FIFA requests that venues hosting the final match, opening game and semifinals can host a minimum of 80,000 and 60,000 spectators respectively, the magnificent Lusail Stadium can accommodate 88,966 spectators, while Al Bayt Stadium can host up to 68,895 fans.

“For all other matches, a minimum 40,000-seater capacity is required, with the demountable Stadium 974 being the most compact of all Qatar 2022 venues (44,089).

“The capacity figures for the tournament have been finalised after all operational arrangements were made – from the final seating map to temporary infrastructure to accommodate media, broadcasters, and guests.

“It was also explained that capacities for specific matches such as opening and final may vary slightly, and that figures for legacy mode are different and provided by the Host Country.”