In a new set of instructions, Qatar bans the sale of alcohol in the vicinity of World Cup stadiums ahead of the start of the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Alcohol will not be sold to football fans at the eight World Cup stadiums. The restriction comes two days before the start of the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Earlier, alcohol was set to be served in the selected areas in the stadium despite its sale being disallowed in the Islamic country. Those in the corporate area of the stadiums during the tournament will still be able to purchase alcohol.
The only criticism I have of the Qatar stadium alcohol sale ban is it doesn't go far enough.#Qatar2022 #WorldCup
— Robert Carter (@Bob_cart124) November 18, 2022
*QATAR IS SET TO BAN THE SALE OF ALCOHOL WITHIN WORLD CUP STADIUMS IN DRAMATIC REVERSAL JUST TWO DAYS BEFORE START OF TOURNAMENT$BUD pic.twitter.com/LU4NuAIBLg
— Investing.com (@Investingcom) November 18, 2022
Lol @Budweiser deleted a tweet commenting on Qatar’s decision to ban the sale of alcohol at all @FIFAWorldCupQTR matches… pic.twitter.com/YzTosQC4sm
— Jamie Schler (@lifesafeast) November 19, 2022
“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,” said a statement from world football’s governing body.
“There is no impact on the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all of Qatar’s World Cup stadiums.
Read more: Women barred from wearing revealing clothes during FIFA World Cup
“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 organizers appreciate AB InBev’s understanding and continued support to our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022,” read the statement further.
More than one million people are expected to visit Qatar during the World Cup. The ban on the sale of alcohol has further triggered criticism of Qatar. The host country is already facing severe criticism for its hard stance on LGBTQ+ rights and the ban on homosexuality.
A few days ago, Qatar issued a dress code for men and women. Men are asked not to avoid going shirtless in the stadium. Women are asked not to wear revealing clothes in the stadium.