A second journalist covering the FIFA World Cup in Qatar has passed away ‘suddenly’ in a matter of days.
The Gulf-Times confirmed that Al Kass TV photojournalist Khalid al-Misslam had passed away ‘suddenly’ while covering the tournament.
The outlet wrote: “Al- Misslam, a Qatari, died suddenly while covering the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. We believe in Allah's mercy and forgiveness for him, and send our deepest condolences to his family.”
The circumstances of his death are unknown, with the TV channel only briefly mentioning his passing on their live broadcast.
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His passing came just a day after the death of US football journalist Grant Wahl.
Grant Wahl tragically passed away while reporting on the World Cup quarter-final fixture between the Netherlands and Argentina over the weekend.
He collapsed at Lusail Iconic Stadium before being transported to a nearby hospital. It’s unclear whether he died at the hospital or in transport.
His brother, Eric, believes there was foul play surrounding Grant’s death.
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Wahl had been detained last month at the beginning of the tournament for wearing a shirt donning rainbow colours in support of the LGBTQ+ community.
He had been barred from entry by security guards and recalled the ordeal online before removing his shirt so he could report on USA’s opening match.
His brother, Eric Wahl, is openly gay and says his brother’s protest was in support of him, while claiming he believes his brother ‘was killed’ for his stance.
In a heartbreaking video posted online, Eric confirmed the tragic news while stating he didn’t believe his brother’s death was accidental.
He said in an Instagram video: “My name is Eric Wahl. I live in Seattle, Washington. I am Grant Wahl’s brother. I’m gay.
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“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.”
He continued: “He collapsed at the stadium, was given CPR, was taken by Uber to hospital and died according to Celine (Grant’s wife).
“We just spoke with the state department and Celine has spoken to Ron Klain and the White House.”
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Grant amassed a tonne of respect across US sports for challenging injustices in the game and industry and attempting to advance human rights.
According to Rolling Stone reporter Nikki McCann Ramirez, Wahl was fired by Sports Illustrated for challenging their pay cuts, and he had also run to unseat FIFA’s president to challenge corruption and sexism in the organisation.
Wahl had also repeatedly criticised World Cup organisers for the deaths and mistreatment of migrant workers.
SPORTbible reached out to Qatari officials for comment.
Featured Image Credit: Gulf-Times/Twitter. Grant Wahl/Twitter.Topics: Qatar, Football, Football World Cup
