World Cup 2022: Beer sales banned at World Cup venues in Qatar

Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar
Doha’s Lusail Stadium is one of eight stadiums that won’t sell alcohol during the World Cup
Host country: Qatar date: November 20 – December 18 Coverage: Live on BBC TV, BBC iPlayer, BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Wales, BBC Radio Cymru, BBC Sounds and BBC Sport website and app. Daily TV Listfull coverage details

Alcohol will not be sold at eight stages of the World Cup in Qatar after FIFA changed its policy two days before the tournament.

Alcohol can still be purchased by those attending games in corporate areas or in stadiums.

The World Cup kicks off on Sunday with Qatar taking on Ecuador.

Budweiser, FIFA’s main sponsor, is owned by brewer Anheuser-Busch InBev and has exclusive rights to sell the beer at the World Cup.

“Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA, it has been decided to focus the sale of alcoholic beverages on FIFA Fan Festivals, other fan destinations and licensed venues, moving from around the 2022 FIFA World Cup Stadium in Qatar. Except for beer outlets,” said a statement issued by world football’s governing body.

“There will be no impact on Bud Zero sales, which will continue to be sold at all stadiums for the World Cup in Qatar.

“The host country authorities and FIFA will continue to ensure that the stadium and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and enjoyable experience for all fans.

“The event organizers would like to thank Anheuser-Busch InBev for their understanding and continued support of our shared commitment to serve everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.”

On Friday, Budweiser posted a message on Twitter saying, “Well, this is embarrassing,” before the post was deleted.

The Football Supporters Association (FSA) has criticized the timing of the decision to ban the sale of beer to most fans.

“Some fans like to drink beer at the game, some don’t, but the real problem is the last-minute U-turn, which speaks to a wider problem – a complete lack of communication and clarity between the organizing committee and the supporters,” he said. an FSA spokesman said.external link

“If they can change their minds on short notice and without explanation, supporters are understandably concerned about whether they will meet other commitments related to accommodation, transport or cultural issues.”

In August, FIFA changed the start date of the World Cup, with Qatar taking on Ecuador in the first game of the tournament.

The game was originally scheduled to be played as a third match on November 21, with Senegal taking on the Netherlands earlier in the day.

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