Alcohol will not be sold to fans at the eight World Cup stadiums in Qatar after Fifa changed its policy two days before the start of the tournament.
Alcohol was to be served “in certain areas of the stadiums”, although its sale was strictly controlled in the Muslim country.
Those in the commercial areas of the tournament stadiums will still be able to purchase alcohol.
The World Cup begins on Sunday when Qatar take on Ecuador.
Budweiser, one of FIFA’s main sponsors, is owned by brewer AB InBev and has exclusive rights to sell beer during the World Cup.
“Following discussions between the authorities of the host country and Fifa, a decision has been taken to concentrate the sale of alcoholic beverages at the Fifa Fan Festival, other fan destinations and licensed venues, removing beer outlets at the stadium perimeters of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar,” he added. said a statement from world football’s governing body.
“There is no impact on the sale of Bud Zero, which will remain available at all World Cup stadiums in Qatar.
“The host country authorities and Fifa will continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and enjoyable experience for all fans.
“The tournament organizers appreciate AB InBev’s understanding and continued support of our shared commitment to meeting everyone’s needs during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.”
Budweiser posted a message on Twitter on Friday saying, “Well, that’s embarrassing,” before the message was later deleted.
An AB InBev spokesperson said they could not proceed with “some of the planned stadium activations” due to “circumstances beyond our control”.
The Football Supporters Association (FSA) have criticized the timing of the decision to ban the sale of beer for most fans.
“Some fans like a beer in a game and some don’t, but the real problem is the last-minute U-turn which speaks to a larger issue – the Organizing Committee’s complete lack of communication and clarity towards fans,” said an ASF spokesperson.
“While they can change their minds on this at any time, without explanation, supporters will have understandable concerns about whether they will fulfil other promises regarding accommodation, transport or cultural matters.”
England fan Ryan, an Arsenal supporter in Qatar for the World Cup, echoed concerns over the late switch. He told BBC Sport: “It’s not ideal, but as far as I know, there will be other places to drink. Football is football; part of the culture is to take a drink with your friends, but there’s no point in crying.
“They’ve had 12 years to put it together, and I don’t think it bodes well to have so many last-minute changes. As fans, we have to keep going.”
In August, Fifa changed the start date of the World Cup so that the first game of the competition was Qatar against Ecuador.
The match was due to be played on November 21 as the third game, with Senegal v the Netherlands set to be the opener earlier in the day.