No 'changes' to 2022 SWC

Paris - FIFA is not considering changing when the 2022 Soccer World Cup in Qatar is played despite fears the intense heat poses a serious health risk if the tournament is played in summer.

FIFA general secretary Jerome Valcke said on Monday that he accepts "worries about the heat are legitimate" but adds that the intention remains "to play this World Cup in June."

Before the World Cup vote, FIFA's technical report labeled Qatar's heat a "potential health risk."

Despite average summer temperatures hovering at 41 degrees Celsius (106 Fahrenheit) and peaking near 50 (120), Valcke says this will "never be at the detriment of the players or fans."