Intelligence Squared The Road to Qatar, with James Montague
Nov 21, 2022
James Montague, a journalist and author specializing in Middle Eastern football, shares his insights on the contentious 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He delves into the intricate relationship between football and politics, highlighting the human rights concerns, especially for migrant workers. Montague also discusses Qatar's cultural evolution in sports, contrasting its development with other Gulf nations. The conversation navigates the geopolitical tensions surrounding the tournament and the broader implications for LGBTQ+ rights and societal change in the region.
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Episode notes
Desailly in Qatar
- James Montague recounts a time in Qatar when he easily met Marcel Desailly.
- This contrasted sharply with Desailly's guarded accessibility in Europe, highlighting Qatar's then-relaxed atmosphere.
Qatar's Football Culture
- Qatar's football culture, though young, exists with its own stories and heroes.
- Montague emphasizes that even small, less-known teams possess rich footballing histories and traditions.
Yemen and Kat
- Montague shares an anecdote about his time in Yemen reporting on the national team's Kat use.
- He describes chewing Kat with the team and experiencing a powerful high, highlighting the drug's prevalence.
