Fans will not be sold alcohol in the 8 stadiums where the World Cup will be held in Qatar. This is the last decision of FIFA, which has revised its regulations once again, just 2 days before the start of the competition. Before, it was foreseen that the sale of alcohol would be done inside the stadiums, in addition to other areas of the city.
FIFA clarified in an official statement:
"Following discussions between the host country and FIFA, it has been decided that the sale of alcoholic beverages will focus on fan festive areas and other destinations, thus removing alcoholic beverages from the stadiums of the 2022 World Cup. This will have no impact on sales of Bud Zero, which will remain available in all stadiums at Qatar 2022. The host country and FIFA will continue to ensure to create the most fun and enjoyable environment possible for all fans.”
Budweiser is one of the main sponsors of this World Cup and has the exclusive rights to sell beer at the World Cup. The Football Supporters' Association (FSA) criticized FIFA's decision, saying the problem lies in the last-minute change of plan, imposing a ban on the sale of beer. In a statement to the media the FSA commented on the official news:
"Some fans like to have a beer during the match, and some don't, but the real problem is FIFA's 180-degree U-turn, which highlights a bigger problem. The lack of communication and clarity of the organizing committee towards the fans. If they (FIFA) change their mind in this way, fans are right to be concerned about other promises that have been made regarding accommodation, transport and cultural differences issues in Qatar."
