World Cup: Beer Won’t Be Sold at Stadiums in Qatar

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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.


Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO

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