If you were planning to go for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, you might want to re-think that one.
Alcohol will not only be banned from the streets and public places, it may not even be allowed inside stadiums during the 2022 World Cup, the head of Qatar's tournament organising committee said on Tuesday.
Since football fans are already unhappy that the tournament has been moved to the winters due to Qatar’s fierce summer temperatures, a ban on alcohol inside stadiums could bring organisers into conflict with FIFA and powerful sponsors.
Al-Thawadi, secretary-general of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy told the Al-Sharq website:
There will be no alcohol consumption on the streets, squares and public places and that is final. We are against the provision of alcohol in stadiums and their surroundings. There will not be a total alcohol ban, but drinking will be permitted only in ‘far-away places’.
He added:
I did not get into a discussion with FIFA on this matter and there has been great pressure from FIFA on Russia (2018 hosts) to change its laws. But our position is clear – we will legalise according to Qatari law and commensurate with the customs and traditions.
While alcohol is not strictly illegal in Qatar, consumption and sales are restricted. Alcohol is available in hotels, while expats who live in the Gulf emirate can buy drinks after applying for a licence. Public drinking, however, is prohibited and bringing alcohol into the country is also forbidden.
(With inputs from PTI)
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