Baku, November 18, AZERTAC
Qatar is banning all beer sales at and around its World Cup stadiums, in a dramatic U-turn just two days before the massive soccer tournament begins, world soccer governing body FIFA confirmed on Friday, according to CNBC.
“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,” a statement from FIFA said.
Budweiser’s non-alcoholic beer, Bud Zero, will continue to be sold at all eight of the country’s World Cup stadiums, the statement said. Alcoholic beer will still be available at specifically permitted fan zones in Qatar after 6:30 p.m., and intoxicated fans will be sent to special zones to sober up.
“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,” it added.