US Soccer announces plans to honor journalist Grant Wahl who died at Qatar 2022

US Soccer has announced that it will honor Grant Wahl, a respected soccer journalist who died suddenly at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, at all home games.

Wahl, who was an analyst for CBS Sports during the 2022 World Cup, collapsed in the press box at Lusail Stadium while covering the December 9 quarterfinal match between Argentina and the Netherlands. Paramedics tried to save Wahl and took him to a nearby hospital. but Wahl died of a ruptured blood vessel leading away from the heart, according to his family.

On Wednesday, US Soccer announced it would honor Wahl with an open-pitch jersey, framed photo and flowers in its first game since the World Cup. In addition, from now until the 2026 World Cup in North America, the men’s and women’s national teams will reserve a seat in the press box to commemorate the election.

Wahl, 49, has covered football for almost three decades and has become an important voice within the sport. At the time of his death, US Soccer released a lengthy statement in which it highlighted Wahl’s valuable contributions to the game.

“Here in the United States, Grant’s passion for soccer and dedication to raising his profile in our sporting landscape has played an important role in raising interest and respect for our beautiful game,” US Soccer said in part of its statement . “Grant’s belief in the power of play to advance human rights has been and continues to be an inspiration to all.”