World Cup hosts Qatar are reportedly lobbying FIFA to halt the sale of beer at the tournament’s eight stadiums.
The sale of alcohol is strictly controlled in Qatarand is only permitted in the Muslim nation in hotel bars and restaurants, away from street view.
However, it had to relax its alcohol restrictions to allow FIFA sponsor Budweiser to sell its products outside match venues and fan zones.
Budweiser was ordered on Saturday to move stalls sell his product in stadiums to lesser places.
The Times reports that Qatar 2022 now wants to go even further – at the insistence of the Qatari royal family Al Thani – and that discussions are ongoing between Fifa and Budweiser.
An announcement is expected today but it is understood that 48 hours before Qatar face Ecuador in the tournament opener on Sunday it is likely fans will be told they cannot buy beer to no game, according to the newspaper.
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As one of FIFA’s biggest sponsors, Budweiser has the exclusive right to sell beer at world Cup matches.
Beer was already only allowed to be sold outside the stadium bowl itself, but within the perimeter for ticket holders before kick-off or after the game.
Now it is understood that beer will not be available in fan zones in Qatar until after 6:30 p.m. and that drunken fans will be sent to special zones to sober up.
In response to the request to relocate its outlets, Budweiser owner AB InBev told Sky News: “AB InBev was notified on November 12 and is working with FIFA to relocate the concession outlets. to locations as indicated.
“We are working with FIFA to provide the best possible experience for fans. Our goal is to provide the best possible customer experience under the new circumstances.”
Footage circulating on social media in recent days shows red Budweiser tents being moved on wheels by staff.
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World Cup organizers in Qatar said “operational plans are being finalised” when asked about the change in location of beer stations earlier this week.
The World Cup Supreme Committee told Sky News: “These plans include venue management teams improving stacking requirements for all competition venues. This has a direct impact on the location of certain fan areas. .
“The tapping times and number of tapping destinations remain the same across all eight World Cup stadiums.”
