Australia is back in line as a strong contender to host the 2022 World Cup after Qatar's diplomatic crisis has left it in jeopardy and likely to pull out of holding the event.

A new report has delved into the suitability for Qatar to host the World Cup, amid the ongoing political tension in the Middle East.

The build-up to World Cup 2022 has been dogged with problems since it was controversially awarded to Qatar ahead of Australia in 2010.  

Should Qatar be forced to pull out of hosting the World Cup, Australia could be placed back in the running.

Australia lost out to the Gulf State in the 2022 bid, sparking outrage.

The decision raised concerns over alleged corruption, with former FIFA president Sepp Blatter stepping down in 2015.

A study by management consultants Cornerstone Global evaluated the impact of the current diplomatic situation involving Qatar and its surrounding countries.

Obtained by the BBC, the report claims Qatar 'is under greater pressure regarding its hosting of the tournament'. 

The tournament has subsequently had to be moved to winter because of the temperatures in the summer. 

The Qatar in focus: Is the Fifa World Cup 2022 in danger? report advises clients to 'to give them unique insights to the reality of doing business in complex and challenging environments'.

'Any cancellation of Qatar hosting the World Cup 2022 will likely be abrupt and will leave contractors involved in a precarious situation that may not be easily resolved.'  

The Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy dismissed the report as 'transparent as it is laughable.'