A sudden U-Turn! Qatar bans beer at World Cup stadiums 48 hours before kick-off, FIFA announces!

Doha, Nov 19: In a huge disappointment for football fans, FIFA World Cup organizers have banned the sale of alcohol near stadiums in Qatar, FIFA announced on Friday. This came after FIFA and Qatari organizers were in late talks about whether beer would be sold in stadiums during the tournament, which begins on Sunday.

 

 

"Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA, a decision has been made to focus the sale of alcoholic beverages on the FIFA Fan Festival, other fan destinations and licensed venues, removing the sales points of beer from Qatar's FIFA World Cup 2022 stadium perimeters," FIFA said in a statement.

 

 

Even as supporters can purchase alcohol at official fan zones throughout the competition, the sale of beer at matches has been a thorny issue. "There is no impact on the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all of Qatar's World Cup stadiums. Host country authorities and FIFA will continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and pleasant experience for all fans," it added.

 

In the ticketed area surrounding each of the eight stadiums, Budweiser, the World Cup sponsor owned by the brewer AB InBev, was to be the only vendor of alcoholic beverages three hours before and one hour after each game. Speaking about the same, "The tournament organisers appreciate AB InBev's understanding and continued support of our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022," it further said in the statement.

 

Imposing restrictions on the sale of beer is a sudden U-turn on part of Qatar with respect to the deal it made to secure the soccer tournament. The action is the most recent indication of the tension surrounding hosting the event in the conservative Muslim country, where the sale of alcohol is severely restricted.

 

The decision raises concerns about Qatar's ability to fulfil its promises to visiting fans on "accommodation, transport or cultural issues."

 

As reported earlier, alcohol is served only in hotel restaurants and bars that have licenses in Qatar. It is illegal to consume it elsewhere. Non-Muslim residents of Doha who have a liquor license, however, may drink at home. Carrying alcohol — even if it’s unopened — is also prohibited.