BEER WE DOHA
World Cup fans can have pints on beach as dry Qatar eases law
ENGLAND fans will be able to enjoy a game of more than two halves at the Qatar World Cup – thanks to pop-up beach bars.
They are being set up to sell pints of beer to thousands of thirsty supporters as the Gulf state temporarily relaxes its strict anti-booze rules.
That will be a relief in a country where even winter temperatures can hit 30C. But the bad news is the prices.
Booze is normally only sold in hotels – where a pint of Stella costs £11.
There are hopes that Budweiser, an official sponsor, will supply cheaper lager when Gareth Southgate’s men arrive at Doha in November.
Beer was priced at £5 in special fan zones at a 2019 tournament in the country. The booze boost came hours after England were told their first round opponents include USA and Iran.
The Three Lions – including Manchester City ace Raheem Sterling – will also face the winner of a play-off between Wales, Scotland and Ukraine.
Berthold Trenkel, chief operating officer of Qatar Tourism, confirmed to the Sunday Mirror: “There will be alcohol available in more places.
“We will be opening up some beach clubs where beer will be available.
“Fans will also be able to buy beer once they are inside the perimeter of the stadiums. There will be kiosks.”
But he said no alcoholic drinks would be available when fans actually get inside the football stadiums, adding: “There will only be zero-alcohol beer inside the stadiums.”
Fans are advised to skip heavy sessions and respect local traditions. Qatar has strict laws, with drinking in the street punishable by up to six months in jail.
Yesterday FIFA announced the schedule of matches.
England play Iran at Al Khor’s Al Bayt stadium on the first day, November 21.
That takes place just eight days after the Premier League pauses for a six-week break.
Their second game against the US will be at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Doha on November 25.
The third group game will be four days later against the play-off’s winner at the famous Khalifa Stadium, – also in the capital Doha.
England have never played Wales or Scotland in World Cup finals. Spurs season ticket holder Fil Sollof, 57, booked his flights last week and welcomed the extra chance to buy booze.
He said: “Getting a beer at a beach club sounds like a great idea. The vast majority of England fans will totally respect the rules and traditions of Qatar.
“Now the draw has been made I’m really excited and think England have got a great chance.”
Qatar has only one offlicence and you need a special permit to use it.
Authorities are opening up campsites and bringing two huge cruise ships to help with accommodation.
We’ll be opening up some beach clubs where beer will be available BERTHOLD TRENKEL