The FIFA World Cup 2022 has begun in Qatar. It is the biggest and also the most eye-catching sporting event in the world. But this year’s event looks quite different for two main reasons.
First, it’s the first time in history that the event is happening in winter, from Nov. 20 to Dec. 18. This is because Qatar is a desert country and in summer the temperature can be as high as 42℃. So it’s too hot to play outdoor sports. But it’s still warm in winter. The temperature in the stadiums (体育场) can be around 20℃ to 30℃, which is just right for the event.
Another reason is that Chinese elements(元素), from brand support to construction(建筑), can be found both on and off the field. The idea of “Made in China” is also catching the world’s attention.
According to Global Data, a data analysis and consulting company based in London, Chinese companies have put $1.4 billion (about 10 billion yuan) into the event, making them its biggest sponsors(赞助商).
China Railway Construction Corporation designed and built the Lusail Stadium. With 80,000 seats, it’s the largest of the eight stadiums for the World Cup. As the main stadium, it will hold the closing ceremonies and 10 games, including the final. Besides the stadium, Chinese companies from Guangdong and Zhejiang have provided more than 10,000 container houses for tourists and soccer fans to live in.
“The World Cup sponsorship by a large number of Chinese companies shows China’s economic power and makes the world feel the power of Chinese brands,” Song Xiangqing, vice-president of the Commerce Economy Association of China, told China Daily.
26. What makes the FIFA World Cup different this year?
A.It takes place in summer. |
B.It’s the biggest and most eye-catching event in the world. |
C.Many Chinese elements can be found in the event. |
27. What did Chinese companies do?
A.They designed and built the Lusail Stadium. |
B.They provided 10,000 tickets for soccer fans for free. |
C.They put $14 billion into the event. |
28. What are the biggest sponsors of the World Cup this year?
A.Qatar companies. | B.Chinese companies. | C.London companies. |
29. What do we know about the Lusail Stadium?
A.There are 8,000 seats in it. |
B.It will not hold the final game. |
C.It will hold the closing ceremonies. |
30. What can we infer(推断) from what Song Xiangqing said?
A.A large number of Chinese companies sponsored the World Cup. |
B.China is playing its part in the world. |
C.Chinese brands are better than those in other countries. |