US Journalist Grant Wahl Dies While Covering FIFA World Cup

FIFA World Cup in Qatar has attracted a lot of criticism, every day there is some or other controversy brewing. At the latest, the US-based journalist Grant Wahl died while covering the FIFA World Cup. Earlier, he was detained in Qatar for sporting a rainbow shirt in support of the LGBTQ community.

Wahl, 48, collapsed while reporting the quarterfinal match between Argentina and the Netherlands at the Lusail Iconic Stadium on Friday, December 9. 

Grant Wahl Dies During FIFA World Cup

Wahl's brother Eric announced today the tragic news. He is also suspicious of the Qatari government involved in his death. 

He posted a video on Instagram and said, "My name is Eric Wahl. I live in Seattle, Washington. I am Grant Wahl's brother. I'm gay. I'm the reason he wore the rainbow shirt to the World Cup. My brother was healthy. He told me he received death threats. I do not believe my brother just died. I believe he was killed. And I just beg for any help."

During the inception of the world cup, Wahl complained of denying entry to the United States opener against Wales at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan and also asked him to take his rainbow shirt off. Also, his phone was confiscated, when the incident was narrated on Twitter. However, later he received an apology from both security officials at the venue and a FIFA representative. 

The particulars of death are yet unknown. According to his brother-they are still finding out. Eric added, "We're still trying to find out. He collapsed at the stadium, was given CPR, was taken by Uber to the hospital, and died according to Celine. We just spoke with the state department and Celine has spoken to Ron Klain and the White House."

Wahl was suffering from a minor illness as per the newsletter he wrote. He mentioned going to a clinic at the media center in Qatar for a check-up. The doctors there said, "I probably have bronchitis. My body finally broke down on me. Three weeks of little sleep, high stress, and lots of work can do that to you...I could feel my upper chest take on a new level of pressure and discomfort," Wahl wrote in his newsletter.

The US Soccer body also expressed its condolence and said it is "heartbroken" to learn about Grant's death, adding that he will remain "an inspiration to all". 

US Soccer Federation added, "Here in the United States, Grant's passion for soccer and commitment to elevating its profile across our sporting landscape played a major role in helping to drive interest in and respect for our beautiful game. As important, Grant's belief in the power of the game to advance human rights was and will remain, an inspiration to all."

Wahl's spouse also an epidemiologist, Celine Gounder expressed her shock on social media. "I am so thankful for the support of my husband @GrantWahl's soccer family & of so many friends who've reached out tonight. I'm in complete shock," she tweeted.

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