This yr’s World Cup is the primary to be held in a Muslim nation with strict controls on alcohol, presenting distinctive challenges for organizers of an occasion sponsored by a serious beer model and infrequently related to beer-drinking followers.
“Beer might be accessible when gates open, which is three hours earlier than kick off. Whoever desires to have a beer will be capable of. After which after they depart the stadium as nicely for one hour after the ultimate whistle,” the supply mentioned.
Moreover, Budweiser might be permitted to serve beer in a part of the primary FIFA fan zone in central Doha from 6:30pm to 1:00am every single day of the 29-day match, which kicks off on November 20, the supply mentioned.
At earlier World Cup tournaments, beer was served in fan zones all day lengthy.
The choice about the place and when beer might be bought to followers is now finalized, however the worth followers might be charged for a beer continues to be beneath dialogue, the supply mentioned.
“We’re working carefully with FIFA, which is managing the connection with the Qatari authorities, to make sure our activations for the match are executed respectfully and in compliance with native guidelines and rules,” a spokesperson for Budweiser brewer AB InBev mentioned in an emailed assertion.
Qatar’s World Cup organizers, the Supreme Committee for Supply and Legacy, didn’t reply to requests for remark in regards to the World Cup controls on alcohol. Qatar’s authorities media workplace directed requests to the Supreme Committee.
There are 4 matches scheduled on most days of the match’s group stage, with the earliest match kicking off at 1 p.m.
It was not instantly clear how Qatar will deal with beer gross sales forward of the 1 p.m. Wales and Iran recreation on Friday November 25, when most Muslims in Qatar might be gathering at mosques for the weekly congregational prayer.
Qatar at present requires most outlets and eating places within the nation to shut throughout Friday prayers.
Questions have swirled across the position alcohol would play at this yr’s World Cup since Qatar gained internet hosting rights in 2010. Whereas not a “dry” state like neighboring Saudi Arabia, consuming alcohol in public locations is unlawful in Qatar.
Guests can’t carry alcohol into Qatar, even from airport responsibility free, they usually can’t purchase alcohol on the nation’s solely liquor retailer, on the outskirts of Doha. Solely overseas residents with permits can store there for dwelling consumption.
Guests can drink at a couple of dozen licensed lodges and golf equipment, the place a pint of beer can price $18.
Budweiser will promote its non-alcoholic beer, Budweiser Zero, in stadium concourses and stands throughout video games and at different fan websites, the supply mentioned.
“We all the time respect the native customs and tradition within the markets during which we function or host occasions,” a spokesperson for AB InBev informed Reuters in an emailed assertion.
“Our promotion and activation of Budweiser Zero throughout the FIFA World Cup in Qatar will goal the worldwide visitors coming to take pleasure in and rejoice soccer on the fan websites.”
