2022 World Cup final date set

The climax of the winter World Cup will take place a week before Christmas - a decision which will allow traditional Boxing Day club matches to take place.

Meanwhile, it is understood FIFA's executive committee in Zurich has chosen France to host the 2019 women's World Cup over South Korea.

The 2022 World Cup is to be played in the winter to avoid the fierce heat of June and July, and it will be a shortened tournament over 28 days instead of the usual 32.

The final on Sunday December 18 is also Qatar's national day.

UEFA had pushed for the final to be as late as December 23 but that option attracted opposition from FIFA members who feared it would cause problems for fans and players getting home in time for Christmas, as well as affecting club football's festive programme.