A second journalist has died whilst covering the World Cup, it has been reported. Photojournalist Khalid al-Misslam from Qatari news channel Al Kass TV was confirmed to have passed away on Saturday.
The Gulf Times, an Qatari news outlet, sent their condolences to the family of Al-Misslam, writing: “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 cause of Khalid Al-Misslam’s death is yet to be revealed, with his employer, Al Kass TV, only briefly touching on the passing of their photojournalist on their live broadcast and appear to be awaiting further details before making a statement.
The news comes under 24 hours after US journalist Grant Wahl passed away in the Middle Eastern country. The 48-year-old hit headlines earlier in the tournament after being refused entry into a stadium because he was wearing a t-shirt with a rainbow printed on the front.
Wahl was briefly detained following the incident but continued to provide coverage of the competition afterwards. He collapsed suddenly during the match between Argentina and the Netherlands on Friday night.
Tributes poured in for Wahl overnight, with his wife Dr Céline Gounder thanking those who have been in touch. She tweeted: “I am so thankful for the support of my husband Grant Wahl’s soccer family and of so many friends who’ve reached out tonight. I’m in complete shock.”
Wahl confirmed on his podcast on Thursday that he ‘probably’ had bronchitis after visiting a medical clinic, where he was prescribed anti-biotics. But his brother Eric believes that his sibling was killed in Qatar because he was promoting same-sex marriage in the country, which is illegal there.
Speaking on his Instagram, he said: “I’m gay. 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.”
The US State Department confirmed that they were in direct communication with Qatari officials to fulfil the wishes of his relatives. Their spokesperson said: “We were deeply saddened to learn of the death of Grant Wahl and send our condolences to his family, with whom we have been in close communication. We are engaged with senior Qatari officials to see to it that his family’s wishes are fulfilled as expeditiously as possible.”
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