Contrary to persistent claims made in the international press, Qatar has not spent $220 billion on new stadiums for the World Cup, and claims that this is the most expensive world cup in history are inaccurate, according to fact checking service Misbar. The real figure spent on World Cup projects and expenses is closer to $8 billion, according to Nasser Al-Khater, CEO of the Qatar 2022 World Cup. While Qatar did spend tens of billions of dollars on infrastructure, including new airport terminals, ports, roads and a light rail system, Qatari officials insist this is part of a long-term developm…