Fifa president Sepp Blatter has joked that gay fans travelling to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar should "refrain from any sexual activities".
Gay rights groups have criticised the decision to award the tournament to a country where homosexuality is illegal.
But Blatter, apparently joking, said: "I would say they [gay fans] should refrain from any sexual activities."
On a more serious note, Blatter added: "I'm sure when the World Cup will be in Qatar there will be no problems."
The Islamic country of Qatar was the surprise winner of the race to host the 2022 World Cup, beating Australia, Japan, South Korea and the United States.
