‘Well, This Is Awkward’: Beer Banned From Qatar World Cup Stadiums After Last-Minute U-Turn
ForbesDec 02, 2022
The Facts
Just two days before the start of the World Cup, Qatari officials have decided to prohibit the sale of alcoholic beer at games during the month-long event.
Soccer’s world governing body, FIFA, confirmed that alcohol won't be sold at the eight stadiums that host the tournament’s 64 matches, which run from Nov. 20 - Dec. 18.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The Qatari leadership is outdoing itself in terms of creating bad press for the country. Besides the fact that beer is a near essential for football matches, the last-minute decision is inconsiderate to fans, FIFA, and advertisers. This sort of lack of communication won't do Qatar any favors, especially considering the country's controversial treatment of LGBTQ+ people and migrant workers.
Establishment-critical narrative
The West continues to apply a double standard to Muslim Arab nations, as countries like France — notorious for its racism, xenophobia, and anti-Muslim sentiments — have the nerve to criticize Qatar while ignoring its own prejudice. Qatar is a conservative country, and all it asks is for visitors to respect that.