Saturday September 30, 2023

No Beer Allowed at FIFA World Cup Stadiums

  • Budweiser's deal is reportedly around $75 million for every World Cup cycle.
  • Budweiser Zero will still be sold at the tournament.
Budweiser
Budweiser
Front Office Sports Today

Donovan McNabb and the State of Football

From Taylor Swift to the Prime Effect, there's a lot going on in the world of football.
Listen Now
September 29, 2023 | Podcast
Linkedin
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

Organizers of the 2022 FIFA World Cup made a jarring announcement on Friday: no beer.

Just two days before the tournament begins, FIFA revealed that no beer will be available at and around the eight stadiums in Qatar. The host country was originally allowing beer despite its tight alcohol policies.

“Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA, a decision has been made to focus on the sale of alcoholic beverages on the FIFA Fan Festival, other fan destinations, and licensed venues,” a FIFA statement reads.

Budweiser, the tournament’s exclusive beer sponsor, will continue to sell its alcohol-free Bud Zero product.

  • Budweiser’s deal is reportedly worth $75 million for every World Cup cycle. The company has been a World Cup sponsor since 1986.
  • There had already been reported tension between Budweiser and FIFA about how to get supplies into Qatar. 

Alcoholic beer will still be allowed after 6:30 p.m. in specific permitted fan zones in the country, and there will still be zones for intoxicated fans to sober up.

The announcement comes days after demands — reportedly from the country’s royal family — to move beer tents to more obscure locations. An official told the New York Times that the governing body agreed to it amid concerns of full tent shutdowns.

Luxury Living

There is one exception to the rule.

An official FIFA Champagne, beer, and other drinks — including wines — will reportedly be available in stadium luxury suites reserved for FIFA officials and wealthy guests.

Linkedin
Copy Link
Link Copied
Link Copied

What to Read

Baltimore Looks To Return To The Oriole Way

Baltimore’s baseball renaissance this season will significantly impact a franchise, league, and…
College football is taking over Saturday night.

How College Football’s Biggest Games Took Over Saturday Night

Network competition and West Coast storylines helped college football stage a coup.

Ryder Cup’s Future Hanging In The Balance Amid Saudi Disruption

An unexpected change could be coming to the Ryder Cup.

O’s New Lease Deal Continues Stadium-Centered Development Trend

MLB club gains 99-year development rights agreement for ballpark area
podcast thumbnail mobile
Front Office Sports Today

Donovan McNabb and the State of Football

0:00
0:00

Featured Today

Colorado Has Become the Hollywood of College Football. This Weekend Proves It.

Folsom Field will welcome dozens of Hollywood stars on Saturday.
Toy Story
September 29, 2023

‘Toy Story’ Success Could Lead to More Disney-Branded NFL Kid-Casts

A successful ‘Toy Story’ game could open the door for other franchises.
Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce on field after the game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
September 29, 2023

Taylor Swift Shaking Up Travis Kelce, Chiefs Prop Betting Market

Sportsbooks are capitalizing with Taylor Swift-themed prop bets.
Taylor Swift reacts while sitting next to Donna Kelce watching the Kansas City Chiefs vs Chicago Bears game during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
September 28, 2023

Taylor Swift Is Affecting The NFL, Chiefs Ticket Markets

Swift will visit her second NFL stadium in as many weeks.

Careers

Powered By

Careers in Sports

Looking for a new job? Check out these featured listings and search for openings all over the world.
Chicago Cubs
Chicago
Fanatics
New York
Tri Star Sports and Entertainment Group, Inc.
USA - Multiple Locations

Ryder Cup Expects Record Revenue, But Not Profit

The Ryder Cup is being played in Rome this weekend.
Stacy Lewis tees off on the seventeenth hole during the first round of the CPKC Women's Open golf tournament at Shaughnessy Golf & Country Club.
September 22, 2023

In Ryder Cup’s Shadow, Solheim Cup Captain Laments ‘Missed Opportunity’

U.S. captain Stacy Lewis criticized the lack of cross-promotion and marketing.
LIV Golf flag pin
September 21, 2023

Saudi Prince Dismisses Sportswashing Claims Post Newcastle, LIV Golf

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is bullish on sports.
Spain women's national soccer team players celebrate with the World Cup trophy after their victory in the 2023 Women's World Cup.
September 20, 2023

Spain Women’s Soccer Players Agree to End National Team Boycott

The RFEF will make “immediate and profound” changes to its structure.
Spain's women's national soccer team says it will not play matches until federation president Rubiales is removed.
September 19, 2023

Fallout Deepens From Spanish Soccer Scandal

Unrest continues among WWC champion national team
Jerry Jones invited FIFA'a Gianni Infantino to Sunday's Cowboys-Jets game at AT&T Stadium as the venue vies for the 2026 World Cup Final.
September 18, 2023

Jerry Jones Courts FIFA President, Eyes World Cup Final at AT&T Stadium

Gianni Infantino visited AT&T Stadium, fueling 2026 World Cup Final speculation.
Players from Spain’s World Cup-winning team confirming their plans to miss upcoming national team matches.
September 15, 2023

Spain's Women's World Cup Winners Continue Boycott Amid Leadership Turmoil

Players will miss upcoming national team matches.
The IOC is expected to vote Friday on cricket's Olympic future.
September 5, 2023

IOC Reportedly Will Make Cricket a New Olympic Sport

Olympic cricket appears likely to debut at LA 2028.