From tackles to trauma: investigating the influence of the FIFA World Cup 2022 on public maxillofacial department in Qatar - an observational study.

Abstract

The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) World Cup (FIFA-WC) is considered the pinnacle of international sporting events, attracting a diverse array of attendees from across the globe1. Hosting such an event presents diverse challenges for the organizing country, which are further amplified by public health threats1. The 22nd FIFA-WC, held in Qatar from 20 November to 18 December 2022, distinguished itself in several unprecedented dimensions. It marked the first instance of a FIFA-WC being conducted amidst the throes of a global pandemic, specifically the COVID-19 crisis1,2. Moreover, Qatar’s demographic and geographic attributes further accentuated its unique position as the smallest nation, both in terms of population and territory, to host such a monumental event1,2. Notably, the event was devoid of the previously mandated COVID-19 restrictions, as they were lifted in September 2022, presenting an unparalleled scenario for the healthcare sector.