The sale of alcohol to fans at World Cup stadiums in Qatar has been banned with just two days to go until the tournament kicks off.
Fans will no longer be able to buy Budweiser, which would have been the only alcoholic beverage available to fans inside the stadium perimeter due to its sponsorship of FIFA.
However, no one attending matches will now be able to consume alcohol in any part of the stadia, with the exception of corporate spectators in hospitality areas.
FIFA released a statement on Friday confirming the removal of sales points of beer from the stadium perimeters “following discussions between the host country authorities and FIFA”.
It is understood Qatar, as hosts, are concerned about the impact of alcohol sales on fans attending matches for whom drinking is not part of the culture – not just Qataris but people from other parts of the Middle East and Asia more widely.
Supporters will still be able to consume alcohol in designated fan zones.
FIFA released a statement which read: “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 sales points of beer from Qatar’s FIFA World Cup 2022 stadium perimeters.
“There is no impact to the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all 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.
“The tournament organisers appreciate AB InBev’s understanding and continuous support to our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™️.”
However, a tweet from Budweiser’s official account read: “Well, this is awkward.”
