Alcohol has been banned from World Cup stadiums in Qatar, just two days before the tournament kicks off. Fans will no longer be able to buy Budweiser, which would have been the only alcoholic beverage available to fans due to its sponsorship of FIFA.
In a statement released on Friday confirming the move, FIFA said: “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. 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.”
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Alcohol free Bud Zero will still be available at all World Cup stadiums. It is understood hosts Qatar are concerned about the impact of alcohol sales on fans 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.
Now only corporate spectators will be allowed to drink alcohol within stadium perimeters. Supporters will still be able to consume alcohol in designated fan zones, but the incident throws into question the degree to which FIFA has control over the tournament.
Budweiser is likely to be unhappy with the move, as the company is reported to pay FIFA $75m (around £62.86m) every four years to be one of its top-level partners. In a now deleted tweet from the brewing company’s main account, it said: “Well, this is awkward”.
The Football Supporters’ Association criticised the lateness of the decision and accused organisers of a “total lack of communication”.
“Some fans like a beer at a game and some don’t, but the real issue is the last minute U-turn which speaks to a wider problem – the total lack of communication and clarity from the organising committee towards supporters,” a spokesperson said.
“If they can change their minds on this at a moment’s notice, with no explanation, supporters will have understandable concerns about whether they will fulfil other promises relating to accommodation, transport or cultural issues.”
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