Hosts in Qatar are pressuring FIFA days before the World Cup to ban beer from the eight stadiums hosting the final tournament, The Guardian claims.
The competition will take place between November 20 and December 18, 2022.
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Hosts in Qatar want to ban the sale of beer in stadiums from the 2022 World Cup
The sale of alcohol is strictly controlled in Qatar, but it can be allowed in the immediate vicinity of match venues and fan zones, as well as in hotels.
Budweiser is one of FIFA’s biggest sponsors, but on Saturday it was ordered to move its stands selling its products in stadiums to less visible locations.
The Times reports that organizers in Qatar now want to go further and that talks are ongoing between FIFA and Budweiser.
A decision is expected on Friday, but it is believed that beer may be banned in all stadiums.
Budweiser remains one of FIFA’s key partners, and if it is denied the ability to sell beer or have any visibility at World Cup matches, the soccer governing body will be in breach of a multimillion-dollar contract.
FIFA and Budweiser owner AB InBev have reached out for comment.
In response to a request to relocate its outlets, AB InBev told Sky News: “AB InBev was informed on November 12 and is working with FIFA to relocate the outlets to the locations as instructed. We work with FIFA to give fans the best possible experience. Our goal is to provide the best experience for consumers in new environments.”
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Fan beer, one park only – £11.60 for 500ml beer
If the beer ban is extended, the only place where fans will be able to drink alcohol will be in a specially organized fan park, where Budweiser has already announced that a 500ml drink will cost £11.60, The Guardian reports.
Several hotel bars will charge 12 to 15 lira for a glass of beer or wine, News.ro reports.
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