Posted by Sabrina B. @gametimegirl

Though it defied logic, reason, and even FIFA’s own technical evaluation, Qatar’s bid for the 2022 World Cup was a success. And while this is certainly a victory for Qatar and the Middle East, the man smiling widest has to be Zidane.

Like many other famous names, Zidane was paid exorbitantly to support Qatar’s bid. He appeared at matches and even starred in a very successful commercial for the cause.  According to The New Republic, his deal guaranteed him $3 million regardless of the bid’s success and a whopping $15 million if Qatar got the event. Well, they got it, so now Zidane gets his $15 million.

For a guy whose final memory of the World Cup as a player was less than enjoyable, this has to be an extra sweet payday. Especially since the son of Algerian parents felt a bit more connected to this bid beyond just the giant sack of money. It’s unclear whether all of the FIFA executive committee members who voted for Qatar can say the same thing.

By Brooks Peck