File photo dated 16-11-2021 of Wales’ manager Rob Page, who has warned Wales’ World Cup play-off rivals that they do not fear anyone. Issue date: Wednesday November 10, 2021.
WALES manager Rob Page is urging Red Walls fans preparing to head to Qatar for the World Cup to follow top travel tips issued by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
With only one month to go until Wales’ first Group B opener against the USA on November 21, the FCDO is working with partners, including the Football Association of Wales, fan representatives, and Police, to provide practical advice to travelling supporters.
And national team boss Page said: “Everyone in Wales is looking forward to seeing Cymru in the World Cup, our first appearance in the competition since 1958.
“For those fans who are travelling to Qatar, we know how excited they are to be watching Cymru play at the tournament, but it’s incredibly important that they keep up to date with the very latest information and advice.
“For the best possible experience, we advise our fans to head to gov.uk/qatar2022 to get all the FCDO’s latest information on the tournament, including Covid testing requirements and the key do’s and don’ts. See you in Qatar!”
Any Wales fan planning to attend the World Cup is advised to:
- Prepare before you go. Our checklist has all the practical steps that fans need to think about before they head off to the tournament, from passport validity to health prescriptions.
- Check our travel advice and sign up for e-mail alerts. World Cup-specific information can be found at gov.uk/qatar2022. Our Qatar travel advice is kept under constant review so fans should sign up for email alerts to stay up to date on the latest developments throughout the tournament.
- Follow the entry requirements for Qatar. To enter Qatar, fans must have a Hayya Card (form of fan ID), as well as proof of a negative COVID-19 result through a valid PCR or rapid antigen test certificate. Accommodation must be arranged before travelling out.
- Get travel insurance. Without it, fans risk medical bills which may run to thousands of pounds. Fans should check that insurance covers them for all destinations, medical needs, COVID-19 costs and planned activities.
- Know the do’s and don’ts. Qatari laws and customs are very different to those in the UK. There may be serious penalties for doing something that is not an offence in the UK. The availability of alcohol, and associated laws, will be different to previous tournaments.
- Steer clear of drugs. Qatar takes a zero tolerance approach, and visitors can expect a severe penalty for the possession of even residual amounts. Punishment can include lengthy custodial sentences.
All three of Wales’ group games against USA, Iran and England will be played in November at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan.
The UK will have a consular presence in Qatar and across the region throughout the tournament. British nationals needing help or advice will be able to contact the FCDO by phone 24/7 on +44 (0)20 7008 5000. Fans in Qatar can access the Qatari emergency services by dialling 999.
Fans planning to travel elsewhere in the region should check the travel advice for each location they plan to visit or transit through. Rules and requirements will vary from country to country.
The UK Government’s Ambassador to Qatar, Jon Wilks, visited Cardiff in July to meet with local officials, including Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford, as part of the preparations for Wales’ first World Cup since 1958.
He said: “With only a month to go, my Embassy team and I are really excited about welcoming the famous Red Wall to Qatar.
“Wales’ first World Cup for 64 years is a truly momentous occasion and we have been working hard with partners including the Football Association of Wales and Welsh Government to support the team and supporters in their preparations.
“We want all travelling Brits to enjoy their World Cup experience, and they are more likely to do so if they prepare before they go.
“Following our six top tips and signing up to Qatar travel advice email alerts will help our fans have a safe and trouble-free visit.”
Secretary of State for Wales, Robert Buckland said: “This is the first time in 64 years that Welsh football fans have had the opportunity to travel and support their country in a World Cup.
“I urge all Welsh fans to follow advice and prepare for their trip, so they can enjoy the World Cup and this historic moment for Welsh football.”
Paul Corkrey, Fan Embassy Wales, said: “This is our first World cup in a generation and we know the Welsh fans will be determined to enjoy the experience.
“It is a trip into the unknown, but information is available and we urge the Red Wall to bookmark the FCDO travel advice website.”
