Fans can currently expect to be able to buy beers on stadium concourses and in fan zones (Picture: Reuters)
With just days to go before kick-off, the Qatari royal family is reportedly pressuring FIFA into a dramatic U-turn which would see the sale of alcohol banned at all World Cup stadiums.
Although the sale of alcohol is strictly controlled there, football fans can currently expect to be able to buy beers on stadium concourses and in fan zones at certain times, as well as within hotels.
Reports suggest they will be limited to ‘four units’, or two cans of Budweiser, per round at an eye-watering £12 each.
Budweiser is one of FIFA’s biggest sponsors but was told on Saturday to relocate stalls selling its product at stadiums to less prominent locations.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani (second right), president of the Qatar Football Association, attends a training session of the Qatari national soccer team (Picture: EPA)
A sign is pictured at a beer bar at the FIFA fan festival (Picture: Reuters)
Budweiser is one of FIFA’s biggest sponsors (Picture: Javier Garcia/Shutterstock)
Staff in high vis vests were seen wheeling a red Budweiser tent to a different location outside a stadium on Sunday.
The Qatari royals were allegedly worried that flaunting the sale of alcohol would offend the country’s conservative Muslim population.
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The Times reports that Qatar 2022 now wants to go even further and that discussions are ongoing between FIFA and Budweiser.
FIFA and Budweiser owner AB InBev have been approached for comment.
The competition kicks off in a matter of days (Picture: FIFA via Getty Images)
Talks are said to be ongoing between FIFA and Budweiser (Picture: Reuters)
In response to the request to move its outlets, AB InBev told Sky News: ‘AB InBev was informed on November 12 and are working with FIFA to relocate the concession outlets to locations as directed.
‘We are working with FIFA to bring the best possible experience to the fans. Our focus is on delivering the best possible consumer experience under the new circumstances.’
If the U-turn goes ahead, the only place fans will be able to buy alcohol at stadiums will be inside the hospitality boxes – priced at £5,000 per match.
Guests are promised a ‘selection of drinks available according to custom and preference; soft drinks, beers, Champagne, sommelier-selected wines, and premium spirits’.
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If the U-turn goes ahead, the only place fans will be able to buy alcohol at stadiums will be inside the hospitality boxes – priced at £5,000 per match.
