Moscow bans booze to stop World Cup clashes

MOSCOW has imposed a city-wide booze ban during this summer’s World Cup in a bid to prevent fan violence.

Officials in the Russian capital will stop pubs and restaurants selling alcohol to fans on match days and the days before.

The ban, the biggest in the city’s history, also covers supermarkets and off-licences, and means supporters will only be able to buy booze in stadiums and official FIFA fan zones.

Moscow City Hall said: “Executive bodies have set the borders where sale and consumption will be banned.” Twelve games will be played in Moscow, including Russia’s opener against Saudi Arabia and the tournament final.

Other cities hosting games could follow suit. In February, fans were told they can bring cocaine, marijuana and heroin to stadiums if they have medical documents.