FIFA bans beer sales at Qatar's World Cup stadiums in a last-minute reversal

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel
..."FIFA said in a statement that the decision had been made "following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA."

Sales are still permitted at fan events in licensed venues, as well as in-stadium luxury suites that also serve liquor, wine and custom World Cup 2022 champagne.

FIFA said the decision would ensure "the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and pleasant experience for all fans."

The sale of alcohol is strictly controlled in Qatar, an energy-rich Persian Gulf country that follows a conservative form of Islam known as Wahhabism. Public consumption of alcohol is only allowed in certain hotels and restaurants.

The sale of alcohol at the stadiums has been a long-running negotiation between Qatar and FIFA, which is hosting the World Cup in the Middle East for the first time since the tournament kicked off in 1930."...

Gonna cancel my tickets now! Oh, wait, I don’t have tickets, I’ll watch on tv and drink adult beverages to my hearts content.

Trying to avoid drunken riots