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Football fans attending the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia will not be allowed to buy or consume alcohol at matches, senior FIFA officials have reportedly confirmed.
Saudi Arabia was awarded hosting rights for the tournament last week, becoming the second Middle Eastern country to stage the global event. Speculation about alcohol policies arose due to Saudi Arabia’s strict laws prohibiting the sale and consumption of alcohol.
According to The Guardian, unnamed senior FIFA officials revealed that the alcohol ban would align with the kingdom’s regulations. While FIFA has not yet issued an official statement, these insiders stated that the decision stems from lessons learned during Qatar’s 2022 World Cup.
At the Qatar World Cup, authorities initially planned to allow alcohol sales in stadiums but reversed the decision two days before the opening match. This last-minute ban disrupted arrangements, leading to financial losses for a major beer company that sponsors FIFA. Officials are keen to avoid similar setbacks in Saudi Arabia, where alcohol is already strictly forbidden.
The decision shows FIFA’s intent to respect the host nation’s cultural and legal framework while avoiding logistical and financial challenges that could arise from altering these rules.
The alcohol ban will likely stir mixed reactions among fans, as FIFA navigates balancing the expectations of global spectators with the customs of its host nations. Despite potential criticism, the move reflects a growing trend in international tournaments adapting to local traditions.
