GENEVA (AP) — Fans going to the World Cup in Qatar must show a negative COVID-19 test when they arrive as part of the host nation’s rules to combat COVID-19, organizers said Thursday.
All visitors aged 18 and over must also download a government-run phone application tracking people’s movements and health status, called Ehteraz.
“A green Ehteraz (showing the user does not have a confirmed case of COVID-19) is required to enter any public closed indoor spaces,” World Cup organizers said.
Visitors must be able to show a negative result from a PCR test taken in the 48 hours before arriving or from an official rapid test taken within 24 hours. The COVID-19 testing policy for visitors aged six and over is “regardless of the individual’s vaccination status,” the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy said in a statement.
The decisions extend throughout the World Cup the public health policies that have been in place since Sept. 4 for all travelers arriving in Qatar.
Vaccination is not mandatory for the 1.2 million expected visitors for the Nov. 20-Dec. 18 tournament. In June 2021, Qatar’s government had suggested there would be a vaccine mandate for fans at the World Cup.
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Qatar confirms COVID-19 test requirements for World Cup fans – PBS NewsHour
