Qatar 2022 bid hits back at corruption claims

DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Qatar’s 2022 World Cup officials say FIFA has been given “worthless” evidence of alleged corruption in their bid.

Qatar’s team says allegations published by British lawmakers contain no first-hand evidence or details of bribes being paid to FIFA executive committee members.

Britain’s Parliament publishing the allegations is “distressing, insulting and incomprehensible,” Qatar’s bid says.

A whistleblower who worked for Qatar, and will give evidence to FIFA on Wednesday, has “a significant axe to grind,” Qatari officials claim.

Qatar says The Sunday Times’ evidence is unreliable because reporters posed as “corrupt representatives of the United States bid.”

Qatari officials say they’re available to help any FIFA investigation.