Paris Saint-Germain could secure their first trophy of the season when they face Monaco in the French Champions Trophy in Doha on Sunday, with the match’s location in Qatar highlighting the Gulf nation’s growing influence in French football.
The game serves as the traditional opener for the French football season. Unlike Spain and Italy, which have expanded their Super Cups into four-team tournaments held in Saudi Arabia, France has frequently hosted the Champions Trophy abroad recently, starting with the 2009 edition in Montreal, Canada.
Initially, this season’s match was intended to be held in Beijing on August 8 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between France and China. However, Chinese authorities ultimately cancelled the game, similar to the previous year when it was scheduled to occur in Thailand.
While last season’s event occurred in Paris in January, where PSG triumphed over Toulouse, Qatar has filled the void this year.
Ivory Coast was also considered as a potential location, and it likely would have attracted a large, enthusiastic crowd had the game been hosted in the football-loving, French-speaking nation in West Africa.
Nevertheless, Qatar made a compelling offer that convinced the French league (LFP) — facing financial difficulties after accepting a significantly reduced domestic television rights deal last year — to choose the Gulf state.
“The Doha option was the most favourable solution for the date, benefiting both the LFP and the two teams involved,” the French league said.
Consequently, the match — backed by the Qatar Tourism Authority — will take place at Stadium 974 in Doha, one of the venues used during the 2022 World Cup.
