NewsRescue
Fifa has banned the sale of alcohol in World Cup stadiums in Qatar just 48 hours before the tournament begins, following a request from the country’s royal family.
“Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA, it was decided to limit the sale of alcoholic beverages to the FIFA Fan Festival, other fan destinations, and licensed venues, eliminating sales points.”
“There will be no impact on the sale of Bud Zero, which will remain available at all Qatar World Cup stadiums,” said FIFA.
“Host country authorities and FIFA will continue to ensure that all fans have an enjoyable, respectful, and pleasant experience in the stadiums and surrounding areas.”
Before and after each game, Budweiser was to sell beer within the ticketed perimeter surrounding each of the eight stadiums.
Budweiser, one of FIFA’s partners, tweeted, “Well, this is awkward,” but the tweet was quickly deleted.
Anheuser-Busch InBev, the world’s largest brewer, owns the beer brand.
“The tournament organizers appreciate AB InBev’s understanding and ongoing support of our joint commitment to cater to everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022,” the FIFA statement continued.
The move puts Fifa in conflict with Budweiser, which is thought to have a $75 million sponsorship deal with the governing body.
‘I’m devastated, it doesn’t make sense,’ said Brian Davidson, the first fan in Qatar to drink an official World Cup beer. What’s the harm in drinking a beer while watching a game?
‘Beer was never going to be sold inside the stadiums, only on the concourse.’
‘Millions of people are coming from all over the world to watch football, enjoy the sun, and drink a few beers.’
‘I’ll just have to go to the Fan Zones or a hotel for a drink,’ he says, adding that it’s a shame the Qataris have imposed this ban.
‘Football without beer is not football,’ said Daniel Schwestka, 30, of Dusseldorf.
