today 12:23
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Qatari officials have been shocked by their sudden decision to sell alcohol during the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup. They have decided that only non-alcoholic beer will be available in stadiums. FIFA could lose a lot of money, writes the New York Times.
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Qatar shocks again with a sudden decision that will surely shock the fans. A few hours before the opening of the long-awaited tournament, stadium officials banned the sale of beer. Only non-alcoholic substitutes will be available for purchase locally, which are unlikely to be well received.
Friday’s decision by FIFA 2022 World Cup activists upended previous plans and assumptions. Above all, however, it interferes with the interests of FIFA, which could lose a lot of money due to Qatar’s attitude.
The international organization partnered with beer giant Budweiser ahead of the event. The American firm was expected to act as the main distributor of the drink and offer the full range in stadiums as part of the $75 million deal.
The company has even set up its own special red tents associated with its flagship product. These must now be replaced by the blue ones, which correspond to soft drinks.
Naturally, “real beer” will still be available in the luxurious suites reserved for officials and other wealthy guests.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup organizers declined to comment on the matter. One thing is certain: the atmosphere in the FIFA offices is not the best.
We will see if the Qataris decide to change other measures at the last minute.
