London, Dec 18 (IANS) FIFA president Sepp Blatter has apologised for saying gay fans should "refrain from sexual activity" if they go to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, BBC reported Friday.

Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar and Blatter's original comments provoked outrage among gay rights groups who said he should apologise or resign.

Blatter said: "It was not my intention and never will be my intention to go into any discrimination.

"If somebody feels hurt, then I regret (it) and present apologies."

Blatter sparked the controversy when, earlier this week, he apparently joked: "I'd say they (gay fans) should refrain from any sexual activities" if they go to the Gulf nation for the 2022 tournament.

Then, speaking seriously, he said he was sure there would be no problems.

FIFA has come in for criticism after making the decision to take the World Cup to the Middle East for the first time.

Concerns were raised about hosting the tournament during the summer months in a country where temperatures can reach 40C to 50C and where current laws mean drinking alcohol in public is forbidden.

Gay groups are also worried about the acceptance of homosexual fans, and the Gay Football Supporters' Network (GFSN) say Blatter's original comments showed naivety about gay discrimination.

Qatar was the surprise winner of the race to host the 2022 World Cup, beating Australia, Japan, South Korea and the US when the 22-man FIFA executive committee voted in Zurich Dec 2.