This study aimed to evaluate the potential of the Qatar 2022 World Cup in promoting bonding, bridging, and linking social capital within the host community and beyond. A total of 403 respondents completed a researcher-made questionnaire 12 months after the event. One sample t-test indicated that all three forms of social capital exceeded the test value significantly (P < 0.01). Residents of Qatar scored significantly higher in bridging and linking social capital compared to participants from other countries (P < 0.01). Arab respondents exhibited greater levels of linking social capital compared to non-Arab Muslims, whereas non-Arab Muslims demonstrated higher levels than respondents from other nationalities (4.444 > 3.852 > 3.349, P < 0.01). Residing in the host community and reaping benefits from an event can lead to a more positive perception of the event's social capital. Facilitating the participation of individuals with diverse backgrounds in sporting events can help to develop social capital across borders.
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