 "Saudi Ambassador to the UK has created a rift with his comment on alcohol ban during FIFA World Cup 2024. Image: Reuters")
Saudi Arabia has confirmed that alcohol will not be sold at the 2034 FIFA World Cup as the country will uphold its current ban on spirits. Saudi Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, has said that fans attending the tournament will not be able to buy alcoholic drinks anywhere in the country.
Saudi Arabia confirms alcohol ban during 2024 FIFA World Cup
Speaking to radio station LBC, the ambassador made it clear that there would be “no alcohol at all” during the tournament, upholding the nation’s strict laws. This decision sets Saudi Arabia apart from Qatar’s 2022 FIFA World Cup, where alcohol was available, albeit at premium prices, within certain fan zones and five-star hotels. However, Saudi authorities have decided against making similar accommodations for visitors in 2034.
“Rather like our weather, it’s a dry country. At the moment, we don’t allow alcohol, but plenty of fun can be had without it. It’s not 100 percent necessary. If you want to drink after you leave, you’re welcome to, but at the moment, we don’t have alcohol,” Prince Khalid said.
The ambassador further stressed that Saudi Arabia will remain firm on its cultural values and will not make exceptions for World Cup visitors.
“Everyone has their own culture, and we’re happy to accommodate people within the boundaries of our culture, but we don’t want to change our culture for someone else. I mean, really, you can’t live without a drink?”
After the latest revelation by the Saudi ambassador, many fans took to social media to slam FIFA for awarding the hosting rights to the Middle Eastern country. Fans believe that the absence of alcohol will impact the traditional experience that many football supporters are accustomed to during major tournaments in Europe and South America.