Qatar has sparked fury after banning alcohol from 2022 World Cup stadiums following pressure from the country’s royals.

While overseas football fans previously rejoiced thinking alcohol will be allowed at the 2022 World Cup despite Qatar’s strict views about alcohol consumption, thousands were left furious after officials confirmed that the country made a sudden U-turn and banned the sales of beer at their stadiums.

The decision – which was made just two days before the opening game and after thousands of fans already flew to the country and made reservations – is considered a slap in the face by foreign travelers who traditionally enjoy booze during sports matches.

Qatar previously agreed to FIFA’s requirement to allow the sale of alcohol in stadiums. Under the new changes, however, only non-alcoholic beer will be allowed in stadiums.

Meanwhile, guests will be able to get champagne, whiskey, wine, and other alcoholic beverages only in specialized hospitality areas to which the majority of ticket holders will not have access.

“Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA, a decision has been made to focus the sale of alcoholic beverages on the FIFA Fan Festival, other fan destinations and licensed venues, removing sales points of beer from … stadium perimeters,” FIFA announced.

This means that football fans will only be able to get their hands on alcoholic beverages during FIFA Fan Festival parties which will take place in the evenings after games in designated areas.

Taking the news in with shock were not only thousands of fans who have since threatened to boycott the event but also the World Cup beer sponsor Budweiser whose Twitter post simply read: “Well, this is awkward…”

According to the reports, the decision to ban the sales of alcohol at stadiums came after pressure from the Qatari royal family.

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