On Thursday, FIFA awarded the 2022 World Cup to Qatar, meaning the United States lost out on its chance to become just the sixth ever two-time host (the U.S. hosted in 1994).
↵↵↵Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al-Thani, the son of Qatar's emir and head of the emirate's bid team, said he was looking forward to the first time a Middle Eastern nation hosts the event.
↵"Thank you for believing in change, for expanding the game and for giving Qatar a chance. You will be proud of us - and you will be proud of the Middle East. I promise you this," he said.
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The New England Patriots owner, Robert Kraft, was on the Board of Directors seeking to land the 2022 World Cup; he influential in helping American get the event in the 1994.
↵In 1994, Foxboro Stadium was the site for six matches, including the quarterfinal between Italy and Spain. Similarly, Boston and Gillette Stadium were part of the U.S.' 18-city bid for 2022.