sports

The Most Famous Sports Memorabilia — and the Stories Behind Them

From a bitten-off ear to Air Jordans, these sports artifacts have become the stuff of legends, marking record-breaking achievements, infamous incidents and pivotal games by Michael Jordan, Pelé, Babe Ruth and more.

Pelé, Michael Jordan and Babe Ruth

Pelé, Michael Jordan and Babe Ruth are all connected with some of the world’s most famous (and sometimes strange) sports memorabilia.

Sports memorabilia offer a unique glimpse into the history of athletics, capturing moments of triumph, controversy and sheer oddity. From iconic game-worn gear to objects shrouded in superstition, these items tell the stories of the athletes and events that have left an indelible mark on sports history. 

Mike Tyson bites Evander Holyfield's ear on the left; Tyson with facial tattoo and gray beard in suit on right

Evander Holyfield’s Ear, Bitten Off by Mike Tyson

In one of the most shocking moments in boxing history, Mike Tyson went full-on Hannibal Lecter and bit off a piece of Evander Holyfield’s ear during their 1997 bout. After the chomp heard ’round the ring, the piece of ear was retrieved from the canvas and sent to the hospital with Holyfield — but doctors were unable to reattach it. This body part has become an infamous piece of sports memorabilia, symbolizing one of the sport’s most controversial incidents. Tyson was disqualified from the fight, and the resulting shock shook the boxing community to its core.

Barry Bonds in Giants uniform on left; the baseball where he hit the record-setting home run, with an asterisk because of claims he was on performance-enhancing drugs

Barry Bonds’ Controversial Asterisk Ball 

When Barry Bonds hit his 756th home run, surpassing Hank Aaron’s long-standing record, controversy wasn’t far behind. The ball, marked with an asterisk, represents the widespread debate over Bonds’ alleged use of performance-enhancing drugs. Still, the famous ball was purchased for $752,467 and later donated to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. The asterisk on the ball serves as a reminder of the era’s contentious legacy and the ongoing debate about Bonds’ place in baseball history.

Diego Maradona playing soccer on left; the Hand of God jersey on right

Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” Ball and Jersey 

Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal during the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals against England is one of soccer’s most legendary (and infamous) moments. Using his hand to punch the ball into the net, Maradona’s cheeky maneuver went unnoticed by the referees, leading to a goal that left England fuming and Argentina cheering. The ball and the jersey worn by Maradona during that match have become iconic artifacts. The jersey sold for $9.3 million at auction in 2022, while the ball fetched nearly $2.4 million the same year.

Paul "Bear" Bryant wearing his famous houndstooth hat

Paul “Bear” Bryant’s Houndstooth Hat 

Paul “Bear” Bryant, one of the most successful college football coaches, is often remembered for his signature houndstooth hat. This hat has come to symbolize Bryant’s legacy at the University of Alabama, where he won six national championships. The hat remains a cherished piece of memorabilia, representing Bryant’s enduring influence on college football. Where to see it? It’s on display at the Paul W. Bryant Museum at Bama in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

L.A. Dodger Kirk Gibson hits a home run in the 1988 World Series against the Oakland A's

Kirk Gibson’s Pine Tar Bat 

The L.A. Dodgers’ Kirk Gibson was called to pinch-hit in the bottom of the ninth with two outs during the 1988 World Series against the Oakland Athletics. Gibson, hobbling on injured legs — a strained left hamstring and a swollen right knee — hit a dramatic game-winning homer using a bat coated with pine tar for a better grip. The bat sold at an auction for $575,912 and is now a treasured piece of memorabilia symbolizing Gibson’s grit and determination in one of baseball’s most memorable moments​.

Babe Ruth smokes a pipe and plays a pianolike instrument, which his wife leans on

The “Curse of the Bambino” Piano 

Legend has it that in 1919, the Boston Red Sox made a fateful decision that would haunt them for nearly a century. They sold Babe Ruth, one of baseball’s greatest players, to the New York Yankees. This transaction not only shifted the balance of power in baseball but also gave rise to the infamous “Curse of the Bambino.” 

The curse began to weave itself into the very fabric of the Red Sox’s identity, as the team went without a World Series title for 86 long years. Superstition and folklore became intertwined with this narrative, with one of the strangest tales involving a piano. It’s rumored that Babe Ruth, in a fit of frustration, threw a piano into a pond on his Sudbury, Massachusetts farm. Despite various searches and efforts to locate it, the piano has never been found — but it has become a symbol that marks the beginning of the Red Sox’s misfortunes.

As fans look back on these monumental moments, many find that Massachusetts sports betting offers a new way to experience the games. It allows them to predict and partake in potential new chapters of success, much like spectators of the past who witnessed the curse’s end, when the Red Sox won the 2004 World Series.

Brazil's jersey from the World Cup in 1950 against Uruguay

Brazil’s Cursed Jersey of the 1950 World Cup

In one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, Uruguay defeated Brazil in the 1950 final, an event forever etched in memory as the Maracanazo. Brazil, the overwhelming favorite, was left stunned by Uruguay’s shocking victory. The jersey worn by team Brazilian captain Augusto da Costa during this match is believed to be cursed, embodying the sorrow and anguish of an entire nation, a relic of a day when dreams were shattered at the Maracanã Stadium. The jersey can be found at the Museu do Futebol (Soccer/Football Museum) in São Paulo.

Michael Jordan sweats during his "flu game" and the black and red Air Jordans he wore then

Michael Jordan’s Flu Game Shoes 

During Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan played through severe flu-like symptoms to lead the Chicago Bulls to victory. The sneakers Jordan wore during this “Flu Game” (black and red size 13 Nike Air Jordan XIIs) are one of the most iconic pieces of sports memorabilia, sold at auction for $104,765. These shoes represent Jordan’s unparalleled willpower and legendary status in basketball history.

Pele plays soccer on left; his 1,000th goal ball on right

Pele’s 1,000th Goal Ball 

On the evening of November 19, 1969, the legendary Pelé, one of soccer’s greatest players, stood poised on the brink of history. The Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro buzzed with anticipation as Pelé’s team, Santos, faced off against Vasco da Gama. 

In the 34th minute, Pelé seized his chance. A perfectly placed pass found its way to his feet. With the grace and precision that defined his career, he danced past defenders and drove the ball into the net, scoring his 1,000th goal. The stadium erupted in celebration, a wave of euphoria washing over the crowd as Pelé, overwhelmed with emotion, lifted his arms in triumph.

The ball used in this historic moment isn’t just a piece of leather but a cherished artifact, celebrating Pelé’s incredible career and his indelible impact on the sport. It’s preserved at the Museu do Futebol (Museum of Football) in São Paulo, serving as a testament to the magic of that night and a beacon of Pelé’s legacy in the world of soccer.

Tony Hawk does a trick on a skateboard on left; his first skateboard on right

Tony Hawk’s First Skateboard 

On a summer evening in 1999, at the X Games in San Francisco, Tony Hawk etched his name into the annals of sports history: After nearly a dozen failed attempts, Hawk nailed the elusive 900, a trick that involves completing two and a half mid-air revolutions on a skateboard. He was the first skateboarder in history to do so in competition. 

Hawk’s first skateboard, a Bahne model given to him by his brother Steve in 1977, holds a special place in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History’s collection. This board, which Hawk learned to ride as a child, symbolizes his early beginnings and significant contributions to skateboarding. Before donating it, Hawk took one final ride on the board during the Innoskate festival, celebrating his innovative spirit and impact on the sport​ 

These pieces of sports memorabilia are more than just objects; they’re tangible connections to some of the most memorable and peculiar moments in sports history. Each item holds a story, encapsulating the passion, controversy and unforgettable events that continue to captivate fans around the world. –Eduardo Solano

Iconic Stadiums and Sporting Landmarks Around the World

From the Colosseum to Dodger Stadium, from Wembley to Yankee Stadium, we’ve got a winning itinerary of the planet’s most iconic sporting landmarks. Game on, sports fans!

Sports stadiums have been gathering spots for ages, where people have come to witness athletic feats, whether that’s a fight between gladiators in Ancient Rome or today’s games. From the deafening cheers to the hushed silences, these places have seen raw emotions on full display.

Now, get ready for a global journey for sports fans: We’ll be making stops at some of the world’s most iconic stadiums and sporting landmarks. From an ancient arena to modern architectural marvels, we’ll dig into their history and the architects who brought them to life, throw in some interesting facts, and even point out a few nearby attractions.

Entrance to All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

This London site has hosted Wimbledon since 1877. The world famous tournament is one of the big four in professional tennis, commonly known as the Grand Slams. And when  tennis folk mention a “Grand Slam,” they mean winning all four major championships, held in Australia, France, the U.K. and the United States, in the same calendar season.

Empty pitch and seats at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

Architect: Stanley Peach

Fun fact: The retractable roof installed in 2009 ensures that play can continue even during the all-too-common English summer rain. 

Nearby attractions: Visit the Victoria & Albert, an amazing museum of art and design, or grab your baking buddies and live your Great British Bake Off fantasy at the Big London Bake.

Exterior of Cleveland Browns Stadium

Cleveland Browns Stadium

For die-hard American football fans, this place is like sacred turf. When the players hit the field and the game intensifies, you’re in for all the highs and lows of a typical game. And if you’re looking to crank up the experience and try to win some money, hedge your bets with this deal.

Cleveland Browns Stadium packed with fans during a Browns game

Architect: Populous (formerly HOK Sport) 

Fun fact: The stadium was designed to give spectators unobstructed views of the city skyline and Lake Erie. 

Nearby attractions: Why not make a day of it? You can check out the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or take a leisurely afternoon stroll through the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

Gorgeous picture of The Colosseum at sunset

The Colosseum

The ancient world had its own versions of sporting arenas, but let’s be honest — none could quite rival the grandeur and infamy of Rome’s magnificent Colosseum. This colossal wonder serves as a testament to the might of the Roman Empire, along with its insatiable appetite for entertainment. The arena’s innovative elliptical shape laid the foundation for modern stadiums.

Constructed under the Flavian dynasty between 72 and 81 CE, the massive amphitheater could seat over 50,000 spectators. In addition to hosting animal hunts and gladiatorial battles, the arena could be flooded with water, where battles between ships would take place — all to the roaring approval or dismay of the audience.

Interior of the Colosseum in Rome

Architect: Commissioned by Emperor Vespasian and completed by his son Titus

Fun fact: Beneath the Colosseum’s floor was a vast subterranean substructure known as the hypogeum. This included a complex network of tunnels and chambers where gladiators, ferocious beasts and sinister contraptions for special effects were kept before fights. 

Nearby attractions: You won’t have to go far at all to dive into Ancient Roman history. Just a stone's throw away, you’ve got the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, waiting to transport you back in time.

Aerial shot of Dodger Stadium with L.A. downtown in the background and orange sky

Dodger Stadium

SoCal vibes meet America’s so-called favorite pastime at Dodger Stadium. Serving as home base for the Los Angeles Dodgers, it’s been an integral part of the MLB (Major Baseball League) scene since it opened in 1962. Built in the valley of Chavez Ravine and set against the backdrop of the San Gabriel Mountains, its scenic beauty complements the thrilling baseball action. 

On the field with the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium

Architect: Emil Praeger 

Fun fact: The concept for Dodger Stadium began to take shape in 1957, following the team’s relocation from Brooklyn, New York. Today, it holds the title as the oldest ballpark west of the Mississippi River and ranks as the third-oldest MLB ballpark, behind Boston’s Fenway Park and Chicago’s Wrigley Field. 

Nearby attractions: Reach for the stars at Griffith Observatory or visit historic Olvera Street, where you’ll find the colorful Mexican Marketplace. 

Exterior aerial shot of the round buildings of Estádio do Maracanã

Estádio do Maracanã

Constructed to serve as the main venue for the 1950 World Cup, Rio de Janeiro’s Maracanã Stadium embodies Brazil’s unwavering passion for football (known to us Americans as soccer). This stadium has borne witness to some of the sport’s most historic moments, including the legendary Brazilian footballer Pelé scoring his 1,000th career goal here in 1969. 

Estádio do Maracanã field and seating with donut-shaped roof covering

Architect: Rafael Galvão and Pedro Paulo B. Machado 

Fun fact: The World Cup final held at Maracanã still holds the record for the highest attendance, with a crowd estimated at over 199,000.

Nearby attractions: Take the cog train to the top of Corcovado Mountain to reach the awe-inspiring Christ the Redeemer statue or visit the white sand beaches of Ipanema.  

Exterior of Estadio Santiago Bernabéu

Estadio Santiago Bernabéu

Madrid’s Estadio Santiago Bernabéu stands as a monument to football royalty. It has hosted the final match of the UEFA Champions League on four occasions (1957, 1969, 1980 and 2010) and is the home of the Galácticos: the world’s priciest players signed to play for Real Madrid. From David Beckham to Alfredo Di Stéfano to Cristiano Ronaldo, this stadium has borne witness to legends and epic clashes.

Architect: Manuel Muñoz and Luis Alemany Soler, with a revamp by L35, Ribas & Riba, and GMP Architekten

Fun fact: The Bernabéu has an unusual vertical design, making it one of the steepest stadiums in the world, helping ensure that every fan has a great view. 

Nearby attractions: For those seeking a cultural experience, Madrid beckons with its treasures, such as the Prado Museum and the Royal Palace.

Fenway Park

As home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park proudly holds the title of being the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball. It boasts a 37-foot-high (11 meters) left field wall affectionately known by locals as the Green Monster. (It was added a couple of years after opening to deter curious passersby from sneaking a glimpse.)

Boston Red Sox night game at Fenway Park

Architect: James McLaughlin

Fun fact: The lone red seat that sits among the green right field bleachers commemorates the longest home run in Fenway Park history, which was hit by Ted Williams on June 9, 1946. Legend holds that Williams spotted a fan taking a nap and decided to wake him up by launching a ball at him.

Nearby attractions: After the game’s over, you’ve got some great options for entertainment. You can explore Boston's historic Freedom Trail or head over to the lively Quincy Market. 

Aerial view of Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Racing enthusiasts know that there’s no place quite like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in Indiana. The thrill, the speed and the history — it’s all there. Traditionally, the race is held over the last weekend of May and stands as one of the oldest and largest single-day sporting events in the world.

Racecars speed around Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Architect: Not attributed to a specific architect or firm

Fun fact: Originally, this race was called the 500-Mile Sweepstakes, but its name went through quite a few changes over time. The “500” stuck around, though. Drivers hit 500 miles by going 200 laps around the 2.5-mile oval.

Nearby attractions: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum offers an in-depth exploration of racing history. You can also discover artworks along the 100-acre riverfront Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. 

Exterior of Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden

New York City’s Madison Square Garden has been the stage for some of the 20th century’s greatest athletes, from boxing legend Muhammad Ali to hockey great Mark Messier. Nicknamed the World’s Most Famous Arena, the venue has witnessed a bit of everything — from Marilyn Monroe singing “Happy Birthday” to President John F. Kennedy at the 1962 Democratic Party fundraising dinner to the excitement of Knicks basketball and Rangers hockey games.

Empty interior of Madison Square Garden

Architect: Stanford White, Cass Gilbert and Charles Luckman

Fun fact: Madison Square Garden has been rebuilt a total of four times since 1879. Its current iteration was designed by American architect Charles Luckman in 1968, whose firm also designed the Prudential Tower in Boston and the Forum in Inglewood, California.

Nearby attractions: Explore the High Line, a public park built on a historic elevated rail line and watch the sunset over Manhattan from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building. 

Looking down into Melbourne Cricket Ground

Melbourne Cricket Ground

Over in Australia, you’ve got the Melbourne Cricket Ground, or MCG to locals. This place is like the crown jewel of Aussie sports venues, and it’s a big deal, as it’s the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. It was built to satisfy the continent’s cricket craze, and it was here that the world’s first test cricket match took place, in 1877. Test cricket is like the granddaddy of the sport, lasting a full five days, where two national teams take turns batting and bowling. It was a faceoff between Australia and England, and in the end, Australia came out on top, winning by 45 runs. 

Empty green stands at Melbourne Cricket Club

Architect: Various (the stadium has undergone multiple renovations)

Fun fact: The MCG’s six light towers are 75 meters high, equivalent to a 22-story building and are the tallest of any sporting venue in the world.

Nearby attractions: Take a leisurely stroll along the Yarra River or visit the National Sports Museum for a comprehensive exploration of Australia’s sports legacy. 

Strange industrial facade of San Siro Stadium 

San Siro Stadium 

Italy’s San Siro is one of the most legendary venues for football (soccer). It’s officially named Stadio Giuseppe Meazza in memory of Milanese footballer Giuseppe Meazza and is home to both Inter and AC Milan, two top professional teams.

AC Milan was founded in 1899, and Inter Milan followed nine years later in 1908. Interestingly, Inter’s formation was a result of a disagreement within AC Milan’s ranks, particularly regarding the signing of foreign players. A fierce rivalry emerged, cranking up the already electrifying atmosphere of the annual Milan Derby, which, as you might have guessed, takes place at none other than San Siro.

Pitch and fans at open-air San Siro Stadium in Milan

Architect: Ulisse Stacchini and Alberto Cugini

Fun fact: In preparation for the 1990 World Cup, architects Giancarlo Ragazzi and Enrico Hoffer, along with engineer Leo Finzi, designed the addition of the stadium’s third tier, suspended by its 11 spring-like towers and crisscrossed red steel girders. These enhancements were aimed at boosting San Siro’s seating capacity. 

Nearby attractions: The Castello Sforzesco and the gorgeous Gothic-style Milan Cathedral, known as the Duomo, (the third largest church in the world) are situated in the heart of the city.

Exterior of SoFi Stadium in L.A. with water feature

SoFi Stadium

Home to the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers, this stadium sets the bar high with its innovative design and immersive state-of-the-art facilities. The 3.1-million-square-foot (288,000-square-meter) arena is the largest in the NFL. 

Field and empty seats at SoFi Stadium

Architect: HKS 

Fun fact: The stadium features the Oculus, an oval, double-sided infinity screen suspended 122 feet (37 meters) above the playing field. This massive display includes a 4K HDR video board and 27,000 embedded LED pucks capable of displaying images and videos in such high resolution that you can spot them from airplanes arriving at Los Angeles International Airport.

Nearby attractions: Take in a concert at the Kia Forum or grab a donut at Randy’s. The original shop features a massive 32-foot-tall donut on its roof, and has appeared in movies like Wayne’s World and Iron Man. 

Aerial of Stade Roland-Garros

Stade Roland-Garros

Paris is home to this mecca for clay court tennis. It’s the place where the French Open goes down every year. For two action-packed weeks, the best international players, including Björn Borg and Rafael Nadal, gather to battle it out on its challenging courts. And there are 17 of them, including the central Philippe-Chatrier court, which has a retractable roof to keep the game going when it rains.

Looking down at the court and stands at Stade Roland-Garros

Architect: Louis Faure-Dujarric 

Fun fact: The stadium features an open-air courtyard dedicated to France’s Four Musketeers, or les Quatre Mousquetaires. It’s a nod to a quartet of iconic French players: Jean Borotra, Jacques Brugnon, Henri Cochet and René Lacoste, who made their country proud in the tennis scene during the 1920s and ’30s. Lacoste even got his nickname “the Crocodile,” thanks to his big grin and iron grip on his racket. And guess what? He later went on to create the clothing brand famous for that embroidered crocodile logo.

Nearby attractions: The enchanting Bois de Boulogne park is right next door, and the Eiffel Tower is a short distance away.

Field and red seats at open-air Wembley Stadium

Wembley Stadium

Crossing over to the British Isles, Wembley Stadium in London is a pilgrimage site for football/soccer fans. The venue hosts major matches, including the home games of the England national football team and the Football Association Challenge Cup final as well as hosting concerts from bands like Green Day. 

Sir Robert McAlpine laid the foundation for the original, which was constructed for the British Empire Exhibition of 1924 and was quite a marvel, being the largest reinforced concrete building of its time. Its famous twin towers were symbols of the game and served as the backdrop for some of the most epic moments in football for over 75 years.

The new Wembley, designed nearly 16 years ago by Foster + Partners, is twice the size of the old one and comes with modern upgrades like a retractable roof for those unpredictable weather days and a soaring arch that’s taken over as the iconic replacement for the twin towers.

Absolutely packed Wembley Stadium while football game is played

Architect: Robert McAlpine, then Norman Foster

Fun fact: The Wembley Arch soars to a staggering height of 133 meters, equivalent to about 30 stories, and stretches 315 meters (over 1,000 feet), solidifying its status as the world’s longest single-span roof structure. It’s functional too, though: It bears the majority of the roof’s weight.

Nearby attractions: Located adjacent to the stadium, the London Designer Outlet (LDO) is a great place to get your shopping fix. Or you can spend a fun afternoon at the landmark Natural History Museum. They’ve got hands-on exhibits and even animatronic dinosaurs!

Fans mill about under historic Wrigley Field sign

Wrigley Field

If you breeze into Chicago, aka the Windy City, you’ve got to stop by Wrigley Field, America’s second-oldest Major League ballpark. If we’re talking about a stadium that can rival Boston’s Green Monster, Wrigley’s ivy-covered outfield wall is a strong contender. It’s so iconic, it’s got its own set of rules: If a baseball disappears into its vines, the batter (and all runners) are granted two bases. However, to make it official, an outfielder must raise his hand to signal that the ball is lost in the ivy. If he doesn’t, it’s considered fair play. 

Looking down on Wrigley Field with building of Chicago in the background

Architect: Zachary Taylor Davis

Fun fact: The neighborhood stadium was one of the last Major League ballparks to install lights for night games, which didn’t happen until 1988. The tale of these floodlights dates back to the early 1940s, when plans were set in motion, but a pivotal twist occurred after the attack on Pearl Harbor. In a patriotic gesture, Philip K. Wrigley, owner of the Cubs, diverted 165 tons of steel to support the war effort instead of installing the lights.

Nearby attractions: After the game, you can wander the lively Wrigleyville neighborhood. And if you’re up for more adventure, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s legendary architecture by taking a boat tour along the Chicago River. 

Aerial view of Yankee Stadium

Yankee Stadium

The original Yankee Stadium was a massive horseshoe-shaped ballpark and one of the most beloved structures in the history of baseball. Its field witnessed legendary players like Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle rounding its bases, to name just a few.

In 2009, the torch was passed to the new Yankee Stadium. Inspired by the 1923 Bronx Stadium, the modern four-story limestone and granite-faced ballpark even re-created the arched Art Deco metal frieze that crowned the upper deck of its illustrious predecessor.

Looking down at Yankee Stadium with seats packed as baseball game is played

Architect: Populous (formerly HOK Sport)

Fun fact: The Yankees’ impressive HD display is about 103 feet (30 meters) wide and 58 feet (18 meters) tall — six times larger than the screen at the old stadium. 

Nearby attractions: Check out the Bronx Museum of the Arts and explore the impressive Victorian-era greenhouses of the New York Botanical Garden.


These stadiums and sporting venues are more than just places to watch a game — they are monuments to athletic achievement and the human spirit. Within their walls and on their fields, records have been broken, underdogs have triumphed, and fans have bonded over the shared passions of competition and community. Though styles and designs may change with the times, the thrill of cheering for the home team endures. The legends, memories and traditions attached to these landmarks will continue to inspire athletes and fans for generations to come. Wherever you are in the world, paying a visit to one of these iconic sporting meccas is a must for any true sports lover. –Taylor Miller 

A Travel Guide to Qatar Ahead of the World Cup

Is it safe for gay tourists to travel to this Muslim country? What is there to do in Qatar aside from the big event? How expensive is it? Here’s what you need to know before you go to Qatar. 

On the field of Al Wakrah Stadium in Qatar

Al Wakrah Stadium is one of eight that the government of Qatar built to host the FIFA World Cup 2022.

The gulf state of Qatar is set for an influx of tourists this winter as the World Cup lands on its shore. There’s been a debate about how to pronounce the country’s name, but I’ve found you’re safe going with “Ka-tar.” 

It’s an unusual, even controversial, location for the World Cup; what’s considered the most popular sporting competition in the world is played during the summer months and has been ever since 1930 — but the heat in Qatar means it has been shifted to November. Also, the host country usually has a record of qualifications for the event, but Qatar has never been in the finals until now. 

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir, or ruler, of Qatar, said LGBTQ+ visitors would be welcomed to the World Cup, but they must “respect our culture.”
Al Janoub Stadium vagina-like exterior

Architect Zaha Hadid thought that claims that her Al Janoub Stadium resembles a vagina are “ridiculous.” You decide.

Still, with around 2.1 million tourists visiting annually and 1.8 million tickets sold for the competition, it promises to make 2022 a record-breaking year. The event is proving to be so popular the South China Morning Post reports that people are being offered to stay in tents in the desert, as the 30,000 hotel rooms have been booked up already.

The World Cup happens every four years and features 32 of the world's best soccer (or football to most of the world) teams. The United States will be there, joining England, Wales and Iran, and are expected to progress to the knockout stages. They're down in the overall ranking in the current Ladbrokes odds, but fans will still head out in large numbers, full of expectation. 

Qatar University Stadium aerial view

The Qatar University Stadium has been expanded to accommodate more fans in preparation for the World Cup.

If you’re heading to Qatar, you might not know what to expect from your team, but here’s how to prepare for whatever greets you off the field. The country is hoping that its new air-conditioned stadiums, hotels and museums will boost local and international tourism long after the games have ended. In fact, it has spent billions on infrastructure — including eight stadiums — in the 11 years since winning the bid to host.

Muslim men walking in front of the Souq Waqif

Qatar is a Muslim country where most men wear headdresses and long white garments called thobes, like this trio in front of Souq Waqif, a traditional marketplace in Doha.

Religion

It’s important to understand that Qatar is an Islamic country, and there are certain aspects of its culture with which you must be familiar. For instance, drinking in public is banned, but there is a level of tolerance within the country. Alcohol is permitted in some places. 

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir of Qatar, says gays are welcome — just don’t be too gay.

And in a country where homosexuality is illegal many gay tourists are wondering if they’d be safe attending the World Cup. Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the emir, or ruler, of Qatar, said LGBTQ+ visitors would be welcomed to the World Cup, but they must “respect our culture.”

Pink building and waterway in the Qanat Quartier of Doha

The Qanat Quartier in Doha has been compared to Venice.

Transport in Qatar

Getting around Qatar is easy, with Karwa taxis being widely available and reasonably priced. Apps such as Careem and Uber also operate in Qatar, so you should never be stuck without a ride. In addition, there's a metro network with three lines; the red line connects Hamad International Airport with the city center and is useful for new arrivals.

Skyscrapers of Doha, Qatar at night

Qatar is a country where you can get by quite cheaply — or you can travel in luxury.

Value

Qatar has two sides: One is very expensive and the other not. If you wish to take in top restaurants and luxurious hotels, the prices are sky-high. However, you can visit Qatar on a budget with ease. The World Cup might raise prices, but usually, the winter season sees hotel rooms available for around $60 per night. Eating out can also be done cheaply; food courts and street vendors can provide great food for as little as $20 per day.

City of Doha at night as seen through arches at the Museum of Islamic Art

The nighttime skyline of Doha as seen through the arches of the Museum of Islamic Art

Qatar Attractions

Visitors who venture outside the World Cup might be surprised to find a thriving art scene in Doha, the capital city. The Museum of Islamic Art is a must-see. It's a fantastic example of local architecture with a vast collection of glasswork, paintings and ancient manuscripts. Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is also worth a visit. 

Museum of Islamic Art in Doha with boat

The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha was designed by I.M. Pei, the same dude responsible for the pyramid in front of the Louvre.

There are also three new museums being built, including the Lusail Museum, which will boast the world’s most extensive collection of Eastern paintings, drawings, photography and sculptures.

Khor Al-Adaid sand dunes from above

Khor Al-Adaid, with its sweeping dunes, is also known as the Inland Sea.

There are plenty of natural attractions, too. The Al Thakira mangroves in the north and the salt flats along the coast are both natural beauties, while Khor Al-Adaid, the Inland Sea, is another highlight visitors shouldn’t miss. And the “Singing Sand Dunes” on the southwest edge of Doha are a great day trip for those wanting a desert safari. A favorite activity there is dune bashing: off-road driving in an SUV with wide tires that slide across the sand as if on ice.

Aerial view of the Pearl in Doha

The World Cup is undeniably changing the country of Doha, adding infrastructure and attractions — making it more of a travel destination.

Beyond the World Cup

Those traveling to Qatar solely for soccer won’t see the best of the country: hotels will be booked solid, transport networks stretched and crowds intense. However, if you come early or remain after the tournament, you'll find a beautiful country that’s more tolerant than the media has suggested, waiting to welcome you with open arms. –Max Hopper