Model Cindy Mello traveled to Qatar for the 2022 FIFA Wold Cup — and she took GRAZIA USA along for the ride with her exclusive photo diary. Mello, who posed for the likes of Dior and has been busy jet-setting throughout the year to fashion months from New York to Paris, took a brief breather in the Middle East for soccer’s biggest event.
From cheering on her native Brazil, and attending exciting soccer games, to reconnecting with longtime Brazilian friends, Mello made a point to squeeze in some sightseeing and even a few HIIT-style workouts with personal training and fitness group DOGPOUND while she was there. Go inside her soccer-filled trip in her exclusive photo diary, below.
Hiit the Ground Running
“I landed in Doha and had to get my sweat session in. DOGPOUND took over the entire city for the World Cup with their HIIT-style classes throughout the city. Pretty soon they are opening their first gym in Doha!”
Sweat It Out
“The workouts are even better when you get to do them with the legend, [DOGPOUND founder and CEO] Kirk Myers.”
Al Bayt Stadium
“Let the games begin! I had the pleasure of attending the opening game and ceremony on the first day of the World Cup. Al Bayt Stadium is HUGE — I’ve never been anywhere quite this massive. To watch all the fans cheer in excitement for the game with the lights and fire — I’ve never experienced anything like it!”
Brazil vs. Serbia
“Soccer, or futebol, is such a strong part of Brazilian culture, and that’s what has always made the World Cup so special for me. Here I am with my friend Sohnia right before we had the best night cheering loud for my Brazil.”
Go Brazil!
“Another picture from Brazil’s first game. Smiling bright as they beat Serbia 2-0!”
USA vs. Wales
“Now it’s time to root for the red, white and blue! Snapped a picture of my first USA game against Wales. Ended in a tie!”
Taking in the Views
“Doha is home to some of the coolest and craziest buildings I’ve ever seen. I made sure to snap a pic of the most amazing one I spotted.”
Playing Tourist
“There weren’t only futuristic buildings in Doha. The old part of town, Souq. So charming!”
Faraway Friends
“Evenings not spent in the stadium were spent tableside with dinners at Gaia alongside my Brazilian friends. I don’t get to see them that much, and ironically, I finally got to spend time with them — even if it’s all the way across the globe.”
Brazil Round Two
“Brazil Round 2! Here I am back at the stadium with my friends and DOGPOUND crew. Such a fun group! We like to think our loud cheering helped Brazil bring home the win that night.”
Heading Home
“And that’s a wrap! Now I’ll be watching and cheering from L.A.!”
