Qatari officials have announced that no alcohol is to be served in football stadiums during the month-long world cup.
The decision was confirmed to the New York Times this morning by a World Cup official familiar with the change in plans. The official asked not to be named because they were not authorised to speak with the news media.
An official statement is expected later today.
The move is likely to upset Fifa’s sponsorship with Budweiser and annoy fans who like to drink beer at matches.
It suggests that Fifa, which has faced criticism for bringing the World Cup to Qatar may not be in control of decisions.
Qatar has struggled with the subject of alcohol ever since the Gulf nation was awarded World Cup hosting rights in 2010. Alcohol is available in the country, but sales are strictly controlled.
