By Prior Beharry
THERE will be no alcohol on sale to fans at the eight stadiums hosting the World Cup in Qatar that starts on Sunday.
Initially, alcohol was set to be severed at “selected areas within stadiums” although Qatar is a strictly controlled Muslim country.
Budweiser, owned by beer maker AB InBev, has a US$75 million exclusive rights deal to sell beer at the World Cup.
Non-alcoholic beer can still be sold at the 64 matches.
FIFA in a statement on Friday noted, “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.
“There is no impact to the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all Qatar’s World Cup stadiums.
“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 organisers appreciate AB InBev’s understanding and continuous support to our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.”
But alcohol will still be available at hospitality suites at the stadiums.
