The organisers of the 2022 World Cup to be held in Qatar are thought to be closing on a deal to subsidize the sale of Alcohol during the tournament. Alcohol has been a long subject of complaints regarding the tournament as the Muslim Country prohibits the widespread sale.
A Cup of beer typically costs $10 which is times five times the average cost across Europe due to the huge taxes placed on the sale. However, the Qatari authorities are looking to bring down the tax ahead of the world cup.
It is understood that the organisers are looking to announce cheaper alcohol prices and a time extension for hotel happy hours. There are also plans to increase the number of spots that Alcohol can be bought during the tournament.
According to Nasser al-Khater the CEO of the 2022 World Cup organizing team, Alchohol is a major talking point as it is not part of their culture. However, he revealed that during the period of the World Cup, there would be considerate availability of alcohol in designated locations for fans.
There is also a growing fear by the organisers regarding the behavior a number of fans particularly English fans. It is understood that the Qatari authorities are wary f selling alcohol on cruise ships where many English fans are expected to stay.
This is partly due to the bad behavior shown by some supporters in recent tournaments most especially the UEFA Nations League in Portugal. There was unrest in some sections which needed the Portuguese police to make arrests.
Al-Kahter admits that safety concerns is the number one priority of the country and the authorities will do their best to maintain law and order during the Mundial. Qatar are set to host the Club World Cup in December and this could be a good test run for the new policies.