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Qatar Bans Beer Sales at World Cup Stadiums

The change in stance on alcohol might breach a multimillion-dollar FIFA sponsorship agreement,

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signalling that soccer's governing body may no longer have complete control over its marquee event.

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In an unexpected turn of events, Qatari officials have decided that the only drinks available to fans 

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during games during the month-long World Cup would be nonalcoholic. 

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FIFA, the tournament's owner, revealed the decision on Friday, two days before the tournament's opening match on Sunday.

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"Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA,

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 it was decided to focus the sale of alcoholic beverages on the FIFA Fan Festival

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The beer prohibition is the most recent and significant adjustment to an evolving alcohol policy that has heightened tensions

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between FIFA, soccer's global governing body, and Qatar, a devout Muslim nation where alcohol sales are strictly regulated.

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However, it will disrupt FIFA's $75 million sponsorship arrangement with Budweiser

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enrage spectators who are already irritated by the event's limitations, prices, and inconveniences; and, once again, 

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leave officials scurrying to change in the closing hours before the tournament begins.

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