LGBTQ athletes welcome in homophobic Qatar, say World Championships organisers

LGBTQ athletes and supporters are welcome at the World Championships in Qatar but must respect the rules of the country, where homosexuality is illegal, organisers have said.

Lord Sebastian Coe, who was re-elected unopposed as president of the International Association of Athletics Federations on Wednesday, said LGBTQ athletes would feel comfortable competing in Doha when the Games begin on Friday.

Qatar Athletics Federation president Dahlan Al Hamad, who was sat alongside Coe, insisted the host nation will «comply with all international rules».

Should we believe this untrue statement from Dahlan Al Hamad – when has Qatar ever respected human rights or LGBTQ rights ? Never!