To those eternal sceptics who keep fulminating over the weather situation in Qatar when it hosts the 2022 World Cup, we have just one word of advice: chill.

And we mean it both in the literal and figurative sense – especially because the Brazil 2014 Fan Zone hosted by the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) at Katara Beach in Doha has exceeded all expectations of attending fans.

Held in the open air in the hot and humid weather prevailing in Qatar these days, the cooling technology that would be used to keep hundreds of thousands of World Cup spectators comfortable during the first-ever World Cup in the Middle East in eight years’ time has made such an incredible impact that it has left no room for complaints.

Ironically, the few murmurs of protest that were heard had nothing to do with the heat – in fact they were about the lack of it – as quite a few spectators found themselves ill-equipped to deal with the dip in temperature. A light sweater or jacket is in order.

Qatar won the 2022 bid with its promise of modern temperature-controlled stadiums that would ensure spectators and players are kept comfortable during June and July during which the tournament will be most likely held, unless it is shifted to winter as many have demanded.

But while the final word on the timing of the event has not been heard, critics can be rest assured that the cooling technology Qatar is showcasing is more than adequate to counter the heat. The fact that the tournament is eight years away means there is considerable time for the system to be perfected, if at all there is any need for it.

Apart from stadiums, Fan Zones are an important feature of global events that give spectators the chance to mingle and socialize. Usually they are established at public squares and other open spaces where huge TV screens can be set up for thousands of supporters to watch the matches. A dozen or so of such air-cooled Fan Zones will ensure that there will be a party atmosphere in Qatar during the tournament.

Meanwhile, at the Katara Fan Zone, the mood among football fans has been decidedly upbeat as they have been able to watch games, play beach soccer and experience a whole range of other exciting activities.

The crowd inside the Fan Zone reached fever pitch on Monday night with a huge crowd turning up to watch Algeria crash out the competition after a 2-1 defeat against Germany.

Ammar and Rana, a young couple from Syria, said: “We can’t believe it is outdoors because it’s so cool. The organisers are very friendly and welcoming.”

“I can’t believe it’s so cool inside the Fan Zone,” said another fan. “Even with the open roof and temperature outside above 30 degrees, I had to wear a cardigan,” she added.

Going by the fans’ views it’s about time the “heated” debate is settled for good.