During the World Cup, beer will no longer be sold to spectators near stadiums after Fifa was forced to do an embarrassing U-turn by Qatar’s ultra-conservative leaders.
Just two days before Qatar’s opening match against Ecuador, the nation decided against allowing fans to purchase alcohol from stands outside the stadiums.
Senior officials revealed that Fifa had been under pressure from Qatar; a statement would be released this afternoon indicating that sales will not continue.
As of right now, there have been no instant objections made about the selling of alcohol in fan zones.
Potential policy changes resulting from contracts might be extremely expensive for Fifa.
Every four years, Budweiser invests over $75 million to sponsor the World Cup.
Due to the controversy, numerous water fountains at airports, metro stations, and stadiums are still turned off, raising questions about whether Qatar is prepared for the World Cup.
In addition, road crews are working quickly to patch potholes, and in the main fan zone, beer costs of £12 have outraged some spectators.
On Friday morning, discussions over alcohol sales were still going on, but neither Fifa nor the Qatar Supreme Committee had yet issued a formal statement.
“We are collaborating with Fifa to provide the fans the greatest experience we can.
Delivering the greatest user experience we can given the changing conditions is our main priority.
It has also been disclosed that Fifa is charging up to £960 per day for hospitality packages to attend its “fan festival” in Qatar and avoid the sweltering heat.
The fan festival, according to Gerdine Lindhout, head of experiential marketing and promotion at Fifa, is the finest location to be outside of the stadium.
The experience will be multifaceted and festival-like.
Football is only one aspect; there is also games, a healthy lifestyle, and delicious cuisine.
We have made the decision to go big in Doha.
Regarding the heat, she said, “It is undoubtedly hot, but there are enough places where there is shade, and we have enough of cool drinks, so I do not see an issue there. People must use reasoning and dress appropriately for the situation. Put on your shorts, a casual outfit, and a pleasant beverage.
Yahoo Sports
