Infantino’s words after the death of Grant Wahl

the swiss Gianni Infantino expressed condolences to the family and friends of American journalist Grant Wahl, who died while covering the Netherlands-Argentina match in the quarterfinals of Qatar World Cup 2022.

“It is with disbelief and deep sadness that I learned of the passing of renowned sports journalist Grant Wahl while reporting on a quarter-final match of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar,” Infantino said.

The president recalled that “just a few days ago, Grant was recognized by FIFA and the AIPS (International Association of Sports Press) for his contribution to the news coverage of eight consecutive FIFA World Cups, and his career also includes attending in several FIFA. Women’s World Cups, as well as many other international sporting events”.

“His love for soccer was immense and his reports will be missed by all who follow world sport,” said the president of the world’s highest soccer body. “On behalf of FIFA and the football community, we extend our deepest condolences to his wife Céline, family and friends at this very difficult time,” he added.

Wahl, a great soccer reference in the United States, died this Friday at the age of 48 while covering the Qatar 2022 World Cup. His country’s media said he passed out during the match between Argentina and the Netherlands at the Lusail stadium. .

As of now, the exact cause of his death is unknown. On his blog, Wahl explained last Monday that he had some health problems in recent days and that he had received treatment in Qatar for what appeared to be bronchitis. “My body finally broke down. Three weeks of little sleep, high stress and a lot of work can do that to you,” he said, recounting that what appeared to be a “cold” turned into something “much worse” when night of the round of 16 game between the USA and the Netherlands.