FIFA has banned the sale of alcohol to fans at the World Cup’s eight stadiums in Qatar after changing its policy two days before the start of the tournament. Non-alcoholic beer will still be sold at all 64 matches in the country.
“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,” according to a statement from FIFA.
Budweiser, the official beer of the World Cup, owned by beer maker AB InBev, was to exclusively sell alcoholic beer within the ticketed perimeter surrounding each of the eight stadiums three hours before and one hour after each game. However, it became clear that FIFA was under late pressure to halt alcohol sales at the venues itself, two days before the tournament’s hosts Qatar face Ecuador on Sunday.
At every World Cup, AB InBev spends tens of millions of dollars for the exclusive right to sell beer. In preparation of selling its product to millions of fans, the company has already sent the majority of its stock from Britain to Qatar. The company and FIFA have been working together since the 1986 World Cup and they are in negotiations for renewing their deal for the next World Cup in North America.
“There is no impact to the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all Qatar’s World Cup stadiums,” FIFA added.
“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 continuous support to our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.”
On Friday, Budweiser tweeted, “Well, this is awkward,” after which the tweet was later deleted. The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) criticized the timing of the decision to ban the sale of beer for most fans.
An FSA spokesperson said on twitter, “some fans like a beer at a game and some don’t, but the real issue is the last minute U-turn which speaks to a wider problem – the total lack of communication and clarity from the organizing committee towards supporters.”
“If they can change their minds on this at a moment’s notice, with no explanation, supporters will have understandable concerns about whether they will fulfil other promises relating to accommodation, transport or cultural issues.”