Qatar bans beer at World Cup stadiums

Qatar has banned the sale of alcohol anywhere near all eight World Cup stadiums on Friday, a dramatic reversal just two days before the largest sporting event in the world.

Event organizer FIFA said in a statement that the decision had been made “following discussions between the host country authorities and FIFA.”

“Host country authorities and FIFA will continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectable and pleasant experience for fans,” said FIFA.

The sale of alcohol is prohibited in Qatar, where it is only sold in high-end restaurants and hotels. But the strictly Muslim country agreed to permit beer sales when it won a bid to host the games in 2010, and reaffirmed that commitment when it signed the contract, according to NPR.  

Budweiser, who reportedly paid $75 million to sponsor the World Cup, tweeted, “Well, this is awkward.” It was quickly deleted.

Beer sales are still permitted at fan events in license venues and in the eight stadiums’ luxury suites, which also serve liquor, win and a custom World Cup champagne.

FIFA also noted that Bud Zero, the company’s non-alcoholic lager, will still be available for sale.

“Qatar’s decision to ban all alcohol around the grounds for the upcoming FIFA World Cup just days before it begins presents an illusion that FIFA is not in control of its own tournament and risks alienating Budweiser – a key sponsor and long-term partner of the governing body,” Conrad Wiacek, head of sport analysis at GlobalData, told CNN Business.

FIFA had successfully lobbied Brazil, host of the 2014 World Cup, to change its law banning alcohol at football matches.