US journalist Grant Wahl dies covering the World Cup in Qatar, brother suspects foul play

American journalist Grant Wahl passed away in Qatar while covering the Argentina vs Croatia quarterfinal match. According to an announcement from his brother, the 48-year-old collapsed suddenly due to what medics at the scene reported a cardiac arrest.

His passing was confirmed by US Soccer via a statement on social media. He was an icon whose commitment to grow the game stateside influenced a generations of fans, players, and coaches.

The news broke earlier this evening when Grant Wahl’s brother took to Twitter claiming foul play:

https://twitter.com/ziplamak/status/1601373769326792705?s=20&t=2rlJvsTbZyBiu5K3TFcrvA

Grant Wahl was by all accounts a beloved reporter both in and beyond the soccer world. So to see his brother level serious accusations like this, especially given the mark he’s left on the tournament with his activism, concerned many fans of the game.

He made headlines during the group stages of the World Cup, eventually being detained by Qatari officials for trying to enter Wales vs England with a rainbow shirt in support of gay soccer fans. Wahl received death threats after the incident.

This context makes his brother’s thread on Twitter even more chilling.

He also posted a video in which he tearfully explained his suspicions. You can view that here.

While nothing is even remotely confirmed, any evidence of a state-sanctioned murder of an American journalist during the most-watched sporting event in the world would make international murder. The World Cup in Qatar has already been extremely controversial, but this would escalate the tensions to an extreme.

*This story is still developing. Check back for more updates and analysis.*

Gear up in the TLL shop

Listen to Grease the Poles!

Check out the latest deals in PA sports betting

Mandatory Credit: Mediaite