With “discussions ongoing” between FIFA and Budweiser regarding a late U-turn, Qatar is pushing for a “complete stadium beer ban” at the World Cup.
FIFA is under pressure from Qatar to halt beer sales at all eight World Cup stadiums.
Alcohol sales are strictly regulated in Qatar, but they must be permitted in areas outside stadiums and fan zones as well as hotels.
One of FIFA’s largest sponsors, Budweiser, was informed on Saturday to move product booths at stadiums to less noticeable locations.
The Times claims that discussions between FIFA and Budweiser regarding a last-minute U-turn are ongoing and that Qatar 2022 now wants to go even further.
When asked to relocate its locations, AB InBev, the owner of Budweiser, responded as follows to 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.”
Three days remain until the World Cup begins, with host nation Qatar playing Ecuador in the opening game.
Controversies surrounding Qatar 2022 World Cup
The nation of Qatar is also in the news for a number of other issues, such as the treatment of women and LGBTQ+ people there and the deaths of numerous migrant workers who built the stadiums.
Times reporter Henry Winter acknowledged that football cannot be the only topic of conversation surrounding this competition while speaking to talkSPORT from the scene.
He said: “It is a World Cup of two halves. There will be some sensational football to celebrate.
“But we also have to step back and think, ‘This World Cup is in Qatar – but at what cost?’
“Look around, how did these stadiums get built? There is blood in the soil.”
