2022 FIFA World Cup © Qatar 2022/Supreme Committee via Getty Images
Finally, after years of planning, building, and controversy, the 2022 World Cup is kicking off in Qatar. It"s the biggest event on the international soccer calendar, bringing together the globe"s top teams to proudly represent their countries. The prestigious World Cup tournament has been held every four years since 1930, except when WWII derailed it in 1942 and 1946. There will be fierce competition in Qatar as the champion French team seeks to defend their title, with the final scheduled for Qatar National Day, December 18. This is the first World Cup hosted by a country in the Middle East, and it"s later in the year than usual due to the hot weather in Qatar.