Driven by a bold vision for sustainability, Qatar’s hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022 aimed to revolutionize mega-events and chart a future aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the Qatar National Vision 2030. Despite encountering intricate obstacles, notably resource scarcity and climatic challenges inherent in such an endeavor, Qatar demonstrated a remarkable comprehensive sustainability strategy and strategic navigation to transform the event into a beacon of sustainable practices. By prioritizing social, economic, and environmental well-being, the nation defied expectations and set a new standard for hosting large- scale events. This case study delves into Qatar’s ambitious goals, pioneering solutions, and ongoing sustainability debates to uncover its true legacy, contesting whether the nation’s visionary sustainability approach truly transcended the charisma of short-term efficiency to pioneer carbon–neutral hosting and cultivate a regenerative legacy landscape.