What’s in the ‘Fanbox’: How one nation paid for ‘fake fans’ to support team at World Cup

Qatar reportedly funded a scheme where they paid North American residents to attend the World Cup and show support for their national team. Each participant received a "Fanbox," complete with a replica shirt and an all-expenses-paid trip to Qatar. This move raises questions about the lengths some nations will go to bolster their teams' image on the global stage. The practice highlights the intersection of sports and political strategy, suggesting that national pride in sports can sometimes blur ethical lines.