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Ramsdale says England can give fans a ‘buzz’ despite Qatar booze ban at World Cup stadiums
FROM JOHN CROSS in Doha AARON RAMSDALE reckons England are ready to give their fans “excitement and buzz” despite a World Cup booze ban.
FIFA announced a dramatic U-turn on the sale of beer within stadiums in Qatar after organisers changed their minds at the last minute.
It now puts FIFA on collision course with sponsors Budweiser who could be set to launch a multi-million pound lawsuit after the alcohol clampdown.
Arsenal keeper Ramsdale, whose
family are coming out to support him, said: “The fans will find some way of having a beer, I don’t think you need to do it so much at the game. Hopefully, with them not being able to drink we can perform on the pitch to give them that excitement and buzz.
“But we also have to respect the rules and continue to work. We will put pressure on ourselves to entertain from the football pitch.”
The change of heart over serving alcohol has caused fury among fans and heightened tensions between FIFA and Qatar, which has reneged on a promise to loosen strict rules.
Corporate fans WILL be able to drink beer in hospitality seats – but they will have to pay over £9,000 each for the privilege.
FIFA said: “Following discussions, a decision has been made to focus the sale of alcoholic beverages on the FIFA Fan Festival, other fan destinations and licensed venues, removing sales points of beer from Qatar’s FIFA World Cup 2022 stadium perimeters.”
Budweiser, who pay £60million over four years in sponsorship, put out a tweet after the announcement which said: “Well, this is awkward…” The tweet was later deleted.
The Football Supporters’ Association, for fans in England and Wales said: “If they can change their minds on this at a moment’s notice, with no explanation, supporters will have understandable concerns about other promises relating to accommodation, transport or cultural issues.”