2022 FIFA World Cup likely to see alcohol ban on streets, stadiums

The debate about how Qatar will handle the thorny issue of alcohol on the stadiums and streets during the 2022 FIFA World Cup has been raging for quite some time.

Now, if reports are to be believed, there is more clarity on the country’s stand on the issue and it is not going to please Western fans.

“There will be no alcohol consumption on the streets, squares and public places and that is final,” Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, was quoted by AFP as saying in Arabic language newspaper Al Sharq.

If Qatar decides to enforce an alcohol ban on a wider scale, and inside stadiums, it could bring the 2022 organisers into direct conflict with FIFA, which enjoys the patronage of international alcohol giants.

“We’re against the provision of alcohol in stadiums and their surroundings. There won’t be a total alcohol ban, but drinking will be permitted only in ‘far-away places,” Al Thawadi added.

Public drinking in Qatar is prohibited, as is bringing alcohol into the country.

Asked whether Qatari laws would be changed during the tournament, he replied in the negative.

“I didn’t 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’ll legalise according to Qatari law and commensurate with the customs and traditions,” he said.