Alcohol will not be sold at the World Cup’s eight stadiums in Qatar after FIFA changed its policy two days before the start of the tournament.
Previously Qatar was set to serve alcohol “in select areas within stadiums”, despite knowing it’s prohibited in the Muslim country.
But just before the two days of the mega event, FIFA changed its major policies, and then the Qatar government also took the immediate decision.
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,” a statement from FIFA said.
The conservative, gas-rich Muslim nation does not fully ban alcohol for visitors, but its sale and consumption are strictly controlled. Alcohol is typically only allowed in a handful of specifically licensed hotels and restaurants and away from street view.
“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 FIFA statement added. “The tournament organizers appreciate AB InBev’s understanding and continued support to our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.”
The decision throws the tournament’s $75 million sponsorship by major beer maker Budweiser into question and is set to anger many organizers and attending fans already frustrated over restrictions that are new to the 92-year-old event.
Earlier Qatar Government imposes a ban on women for wearing unethical clothes aimed Qatar government is not ready to compromise on their culture, religious norms, and Islamic laws as they banned female fans coming from around the globe, to wear revealing clothes during the FIFA World Cup matches.
Read More : The government of Qatar imposes ban on Female Fans from wearing unethical clothes during FIFA World Cup
