Qatar have reduced the tax on alcohol from 100% to 70% but it's no reason for football fans to celebrate because a case of beer will still cost them $64 when the World Cup in 2022 kicks off.
The news that Qatar will host the World Cup in 2022 didn't go down well, way back in December 2010 when it was announced, and it's not exactly got any better since then.
In January fans were put on alert by the news that the country had introduced a 100% alcohol tax. Now, according to Quartz, there's been a reduction by 30% on that but it isn't good news.
The report says that there is just one liquor store in the country and that a case of beer will cost you $64 or $2.66 a beer, the same price as a night out.
Advert
At the beginning of the year the government placed a tax hike on all sorts of items deemed unhealthy, including tobacco and sugary drinks, but hotels in the country haven't been happy with the alcohol tax.
Being in a country that isn't big on selling alcohol doesn't exactly go hand-in-hand with how FIFA likes its tournaments to be run.
The football governing body has a long standing relationship with sponsor Budweiser and through that made Brazil reverse their ban on alcohol in football stadiums during the 2014 World Cup.
Advert
As per the Foreign Office, people are not allowed to drink in public because of the country's traditions, though it's noted that alcohol is available at licensed hotel restaurants and bars with a permit.
Those organising the tournament, which will take place in the winter to avoid extreme temperatures, say alcohol will be available for fans in designated areas such as fan parks.
England will be hoping that they can finally go past their current semi-final curse in the Euros next summer but Gareth Southgate will also have his eyes on the World Cup in the middle east.
Advert
The Three Lions first need to concentrate on qualifying for the Euros with Czech Republic, Kosovo, Montenegro and Bulgaria all in their group.
Will you be going to Qatar?
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football World Cup, Football News, World Cup 2022, three lions, England, World Cup