World Cup: Australia first team to criticise Qatar’s approach to migrant workers and same-sex marriage

Australia have become the first team competing in next month’s World Cup to collectively condemn human rights abuses in the host country Qatar.

Football Australia said the alleged exploitation of migrant workers during stadium construction “cannot be ignored” and urged Qatar to legalise same-sex marriage in one of the most significant tournament protests to date.

The World Cup, which begins on November 20, has been beset by controversy since Qatar was awarded the tournament by Fifa, the world governing body, 12 years ago.

“We acknowledge the significant progress and legislative reforms have occurred in Qatar over recent years to recognise and protect the rights of workers, and we encourage all stakeholders to continue this path to reform,” Football Australia said in a statement.

“However, we