Stranded World Cup fans offered refunds after ‘negligence’

DOHA, Qatar – Football fans stranded in Qatar without accommodation because official fan villages were not completed due to “operator negligence” have been offered full refunds by the Supreme Committee responsible for organizing the World Cup.

Thousands of fans have the opportunity to stay in cheap camps in the desert – a night in a converted shipping container will cost around US$200 (£165) a night – with basic facilities and communal washing areas.

– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (US)

However, some sites are not yet completed and supporters who came to the fan village in Rawdat al Jahhaniya found that large parts of the site are still under construction with sinks and toilets waiting to be installed.

And with fans from around the world complaining about the standard of accommodation, the Supreme Committee, led by the Government of Qatar, has now approved full refunds.

A spokesman for the Supreme Committee told ESPN, “We are aware that a number of fans have faced check-in delays at select fan village properties due to the negligence of owners and operators.

“Some of the units in these facilities, which are supplied and managed by various private companies, have not met the required standards advertised to fans.

“Although these websites are managed by independent commercial entities, resolving these issues remains a top priority for the Board of Governors.

“Fans severely impacted by this issue will be offered full refunds as well as alternative accommodation that is free for the duration of their stay.”

ESPN has attempted to speak to the official accommodation hotline, but after speaking to an operator, he was told the system was “under maintenance” and to “call back tomorrow.”