On Friday 19 May 2017, history was made. Khalifa International Stadium became the first 2022 FIFA World Cup Qatar™ venue to host a football match.

To mark the momentous occasion – and to tell the famous stadium's story – we have created a new free photo publication for download, along with a new page on our website featuring rarely seen images of the stadium.

We take a look back at how one of Qatar's most iconic venues was born, and reborn.

The timeline charts the stadium's earliest beginnings in 1976, the hosting of the Gulf Cup in 1992 and the Asian Games in 2006.

It then covers the venue's transformation into the present-day arena – a first-class sporting complex, ready to host the world's most prestigious events.

Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy Secretary General, H.E. Hassan Al Thawadi, described the opening of the stadium as "an important milestone that reflects our determination to deliver a tournament the entire Arab world is proud to be a part of".

He continued: "As we promised in our bid, our innovative stadiums offer an unrivalled experience to fans and players alike. I'm proud we can show these off to the world and welcome fans with the hospitality this World Cup will be remembered for."

A giant step has been taken on the road to 2022. Now you can join us on this journey.

Download the new Khalifa International Stadium timeline publication and visit the new page dedicated to its historical development.