England and Wales fans travelling to Qatar for the World Cup in November are warned they will need a negative COVID test. Tony McDonough reports

Football fans planning to travel to Qatar for the World Cup in November are being warned they will need proof of a negative COVID test to enter the Middle Eastern country.

With England and Wales both competing in the tournament it is estimated around 10,000 supporters will make the trip to Qatar. And while many countries have now dropped the requirement for a negative test, Qatar has not.

Liverpool COVID testing firm DAM Health says full vaccination status will not be enough alone to enter the country. Upon arrival at the airport travellers will need to offer proof of a negative COVID-19 result through a valid PCR or rapid antigen test certificate from an official testing centre.

England kick-off their World Cup campaign against Iran on November 21. England face Wales in their final group game on November 29.

Professor Frank Joseph, founder of DAM Health, said: “It is paramount that supporters heading to Qatar begin booking their PCR or rapid antigen test. With the World Cup less than four weeks away, there will be a surge in fans who need the test for entry into Qatar.

“Without the relevant testing certificates fans are in danger of being sent back to the UK and missing out on all of the big games.

READ MORE: Former NHS executive joins DAM Health

“Supporters must be able to show a negative result from a PCR test taken 48 hours before arriving, or from an official rapid test taken within 24 hours. This leaves a very specific timetable for testing.

“Fans must also remember rapid antigen tests will only be accepted from official medical testing centres and not self administered. No further testing is required in Qatar if you do not develop COVID-19 symptoms, and vaccination is not mandatory, unlike PCR and rapid antigen testing.”