Fans with tickets to a World Cup match will be able to drink as Qatar reportedly allow alcoholic beers to be sold three hours before kick off.
According to Reuters, Qatar will allow fans to buy alcoholic beers at the World Cup three hours before kick off and one hour after the full time whistle. However, no alcohol will be sold during the match.
It has been reported that Budweiser, who is a major sponsor for the upcoming World Cup have exclusive rights to sell beers at the tournament, they will only serve within the ticketed perimeter surrounding each stadium. They will not be serving drinks in the stadium stands or concourse.
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The 2022 World Cup is the first tournament to be held in a Muslim country, which has strict rules on alcohol. With that, the organisers have been faced with huge challenges as the tournament is sponsored by one of the biggest beer brands in the world.
A source told Reuters: “Beer will be available when gates open, which is three hours before kick off. Whoever wants to have a beer will be able to. And then when they leave the stadium as well for one hour after the final whistle.
In addition to serving beers within the surrounding areas of the stadiums, Budweiser will serve beverages in parts of the main FIFA fan zone, which is based in the capital, Doha. They are permitted to do so from 6:30pm to 1:00am every day for the duration of the 29 day tournament.
Beers were served all day in previous World Cups.
A spokesperson for Budweiser said: “We are working closely with FIFA, which is managing the relationship with the Qatari authorities, to ensure our activations for the tournament are executed respectfully and in compliance with local rules and regulations.
“We always respect the local customs and culture in the markets in which we operate or host events.
“Our promotion and activation of Budweiser Zero during the FIFA World Cup in Qatar will target the international guests coming to enjoy and celebrate football at the fan sites.”
The first match of the World Cup will kick off at 4pm UK time on 20 November, with the hosts Qatar taking on Ecuador.
Topics: Football World Cup, Qatar, Football
Marcus Chan