No Alcohol Allowed at 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Football fans heading to the 2034 World Cup in Saudi Arabia will be prohibited from purchasing alcohol during the tournament. This announcement comes as part of the kingdom’s longstanding ban on alcohol sales, which carries severe penalties for violations.

The Saudi ambassador to the UK confirmed the ban, stating that “plenty of fun can be had without alcohol.” The ban raises questions among many football supporters who view enjoying beverages as a social aspect of attending matches.

Saudi Arabia’s strict alcohol policies outlaw consumption entirely, with punishments that may include flogging, jail time, or deportation for those caught drinking. The gamble of alienating fans could have implications for attendance at the World Cup, which is expected to attract millions of visitors.

“It’s disheartening to know we won’t be able to enjoy a drink while watching our teams play,” said Tom Edwards, a die-hard football fan from England. “Football culture is intertwined with having a pint before and after the game.”

The decision reflects the kingdom’s cultural stance, which often does not accommodate Western social norms. With the World Cup being one of the globe’s most significant sporting events, this might indicate a challenge in bridging cultural differences between visiting fans and local customs.

Further complicating matters, this initiative appears to align with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to reshape its international image, particularly after announcing the country would host one of the world’s largest football tournaments.

Reports suggest that fans planning to attend the matches should prepare accordingly, as they may need to adapt to the local environment and customs, which differ significantly from those in their home countries.