Saudi Arabia’s confirmation of hosting the 2034 World Cup has already caused some fans to plan trips to the tournament and wonder whether they will be able to drink beer during the match.
Some fans were disappointed with the news just before the start of the 2022 World Cup alcohol will be served only in the corporate parts of the stadiums in Qatar. The initial message was that alcohol would be sold in select areas.
So what issues are likely to be at the forefront of spirits during the 2034 World Cup?
Will beer be available at the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia?
Beer availability is, of course, not the most pressing issue in the context of Saudi Arabia’s successful offering, given concerns about the human rights situation in the country.
Under Saudi law, consuming or possessing alcohol may be punishable by fines, deportation, imprisonment or corporal punishment such as public flogging.
In 2022, said Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sports, Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal News from heaven asked whether restrictions would be lifted for the duration of the World Cup: “If you are against it [prohibition]and you do not feel that you will be satisfied with the coming time and you cannot follow this rule, then do not come. It’s that simple.”
That sounds like a no.
Alcohol was not available at other Saudi sporting events, including F1, where only non-alcoholic beer is available for sale.
– said the Saudi head of the World Cup bid, Hammad Albalawi Reuters: “More than 100 world sporting events have already taken place in Saudi Arabia. No alcohol was served at tournaments. Three million sports fans came out and enjoyed the tournaments, which keep coming back.
At this stage, there is no formal confirmation of this position, but everything indicates that alcohol will not be available for purchase at the 2034 World Cup.
The decision to award the World Cup to Saudi Arabia was criticized by many fan groups and human rights organizations.
