England could still host 2022 World Cup amid 'fears of terrorism, war and corruption in Qatar'
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England's hopes of hosting the world Cup in 2022 are not yet over, it has been claimed.
It comes after a report was leaked about the safety of the tournament being held in Qatar, the oil-rich nation that was controversially handed the competition by corrupt FIFA officials in 2010.
Experts believe the possibility of terror attacks, further corruption or even war make the country "too risky" for a World Cup.
Qatar is in the middle of a diplomatic crisis after several neighbouring Arab nations cut off diplomatic relations.
Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Bahrain have withdrawn ambassadors and imposed trade and travel bans with Qatar.
They accuse the state of supporting terrorism.
(Image: Getty Images Europe)
(Image: Getty Images AsiaPac)
Some experts are predicting it could escalate leading to an "abrupt" decision to drop the World Cup in 2022.
That would leave England in pole position to act as an emergency host for the tournament.
A football source told the Daily Star: "England is ready
for football to come home.
"We are long overdue a World Cup and have a proven track record in hosting major sporting events like the Olympics.
"We could practically take on the 2022 tournament overnight.
"Our cities could take the fan influx, our public transport is capable and the stadiums are of the highest quality.
"Qatar should never have got this competition in the first place.
"It’s way too hot in the summer and is nowhere near
ready to host the world’s greatest sports event."
(Image: PA)
It comes after a study carried out by management consultants Cornerstone Global warned construction companies that that Qatar's World Cup programme is a "high-risk project".
Citing political tensions it said: "Given the current political situation... it is certainly possible that the tournament will not be held in Qatar."
Qatar responded by accusing Cornerstone of being "affiliated" with the countries involved in the current blockade.
The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, which in a statement, told the BBC: "The intention to create doubt regarding the tournament, while attempting to cause resentment amongst Qatari citizens and anxiety amongst foreign businesses and residents, is as transparent as it is laughable.
"Despite the ambitious title of this report, there is absolutely no risk to the future of the first World Cup in the Middle East."