Qatar has banned the sale of beer in eight stadiums where the FIFA world cup will be held. Qatar's decision comes as the world cup begins on Sunday. The decision came after marathon discussions with FIFA. The new decision is different from Qatar's previous position. Initially, there was an understanding that FIFA-sponsored Budweiser beer would be allowed to be sold in qatar world cup official venues.
The supreme Committee on Delivery and Legacy had promised that alcohol would be available in designated 'fan zones' outside stadiums and other hospitality venues. In September, world cup organizers in qatar finalized a policy to serve beer alongside alcohol to football fans in stadiums and fan zones. Qatar's stance is that in a country where traditional Muslim laws exist, if drinking and parties are to take place, it is enough to follow a clear law. The sale of alcohol is strictly controlled in the country.
Qatar has banned the sale of alcohol in almost all restaurants not affiliated with high-end hotels or resorts. With the employer's permission, foreigners can buy liquor, beer and wine for home use at a depot operated by qatar Airways on the outskirts of Doha. Meanwhile FIFA and Budweiser maker AB InBev, a partnership since 1986, are pushing for more concessions. FIFA is set to face a multibillion-dollar breach of contract claim from Budweiser after it was denied the opportunity to sell beer at world cup matches.
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As it is certain that qatar will stick to the demand of banning beer, alcohol will now be available only in fan parks. Fans can sit in special fan zones and drink beer. Apart from this, alcohol is only available in licensed hotel restaurants and bars in Qatar. Drinking in public in qatar is a crime punishable by imprisonment. In 2014, brazil passed the Budweiser Bill to overturn local laws banning beer in stadiums for the 2014 World Cup.
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