The introduction of the stadium ban has already been confirmed by FIFA. This means that football fans will only be able to drink alcohol in “specially designated areas” or in certain hotels and restaurants. FIFA points out that in the stadiums it will be possible to buy non-alcoholic Bud Light beer.
CNN recalls that in September, Qatar announced that it would allow fans to purchase alcoholic beer at matches three hours before kickoff – and for one hour after the final whistle. Buying, however, was to be impossible during the meetings themselves.
The media recalls that Qatar, like other countries in the region, is very strict on alcohol issues. Many commentators note, however, that the ban seems quite bizarre in a situation where the tournament has its “official beer”. It is the Budweiser brand belonging to the Anheuser-Busch group. FIFA emphasizes that it “appreciates” the company’s understanding in this regard.
Global media are reporting that the economic tournament royal family has long been lobbying FIFA to impose such a ban.
