Qatar World Cup: FIFA says no beer to be sold around stadiums

“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,” FIFA said on Friday.

The football governing body added that the change in plans will not impact the sale of Bud Zero, a non-alcoholic drink that will remain available at all stadiums.

“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,” FIFA said.

In September, it was reported that Qatar will permit ticketed fans to buy alcoholic beer at World Cup soccer matches starting three hours before kickoff and for one hour after the final whistle, but not during the match.

Qatar exercises tight regulation on the sale and access of alcohol. While alcohol is not banned in Qatar, visitors can only purchase it at bars inside designated hotels.

On Monday, it was also reported that Qatar will move beer stations away from directly outside stadiums, according to the New York Times.

According to the report, “the people spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to discuss sensitive planning details for the tournament,” adding that World Cup officials appeared to confirm the changes in a statement.

Budweiser — which is the official sponsor of beer during the 29-day tournament — was only reportedly made aware of the new plan on Saturday.

According to the NYT report, Budweiser had said it was working with organisers “to relocate the concession outlets to locations as directed.”