US Soccer Journalist Dies While Covering Qatar World Cup

Image copyright: Sports Illustrated/Getty Images [via Yahoo!News]

The Facts

  • Grant Wahl, a prominent American soccer journalist, died on Friday while covering the FIFA World Cup match between Argentina and the Netherlands in Qatar.

  • Eyewitnesses report that Wahl collapsed in the press box at Lusail Iconic Stadium during extra time. When emergency services failed to revive him, he was taken to Hamad General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.


The Spin

Narrative A

Although there's no current evidence to corroborate claims of foul play, given the sudden and unclear cause of this tragic death, a thorough investigation is required.

Narrative B

Qatar has flaws, but unfounded accusations of foul play unfairly tarnish its reputation. While the direct cause of Wahl's death is still uncertain, what is clear — and unanimously agreed upon — is that this shocking loss will leave a hole in the soccer community.


Articles on this story

Sign up to our daily newsletter