Valcke: Qatar Can Host World Cup in 8 Stadiums

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia - FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke says Qatar can stage the 2022 World Cup in eight stadiums, despite the 12-venue plan required when bidding.

Valcke tells The Associated Press that ongoing talks with Qatar "will be pragmatic and we will find the right number."

Last month, an American investment bank revealed after meeting Qatar's organizing committee that fewer stadiums were being considered. Bank of America Merrill Lynch told investors that 12 could push World Cup-linked construction costs over its $95 billion estimate.

Valcke says he doesn't "see the interest for Qatar to have 12" given the country's size.

FIFA requires at least eight for the 64-match tournament, and future hosts Brazil and Russia opted for 12.

Valcke expects the 2022 World Cup will be played in "between eight to 10."