Budweiser is offering warehouse slab of beer to FIFA World Cup winners after last minute booze ban

Budweiser is now offering a massive warehouse-sized slab of free beers to the winning country of the World Cup following Qatar’s alcohol ban at game venues.

The American beer company is one of the sponsors for the tournament and was previously allowed to sell beers at World Cup stadiums.

But Qatar decided to prohibit the sale of alcohol inside stadiums just two days before the World Cup kicked off.

Confirming the ban, a statement issued by FIFA read: "Following discussions between host country authorities and FIFA, 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.

"There is no impact to the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all Qatar's World Cup stadiums. Host country authorities and FIFA will continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and pleasant experience for all fans.

"The tournament organisers appreciate AB InBev's understanding and continuous support to our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022."

Reacting to the news, in a since deleted tweet, the official Budweiser account read: "Well, this is awkward..."

The beer brand, which allegedly allocated USD $75 million (AUD $113.6m or £62m) to honour their deal with FIFA, has now been asked to relocate their stands.

Footage shared online over the weekend also showed staff members moving tents bearing Budweiser's logo to new locations.

However, Budweiser, the World Cup’s exclusive beer sponsor, will continue to sell its alcohol-free Bud Zero product.

Alcohol-free beer? It doesn’t exactly scream World Cup festivities. You might as well pour yourself a Shirley Temple over some ice.

But now, as an alternative, Budweiser is generously offering free cans of beer to the country that comes out on top in the tournament.

In the wake of Qatar’s announcement, many football fans have been left outraged.

According to Fox Sports, during the first match between Qatar and Ecuador, fans reportedly began chanting, 'queremos cerveza', which translates to 'we want beer'.

Ah sorry lads, perhaps you can enjoy a cold one back at the hotel.

Featured Image Credit: Budweiser/Twitter. Ionel Sorin Furcoi / Alamy Stock Photo

Topics: News, World News, World Cup, Sport, Football, Food And Drink

Charisa Bossinakis

Charisa Bossinakis is an Associative Journalist at LADbible. Charisa has worked across various media platforms including, print, digital, radio and podcasting while maintaining the highest regard for quality work and integrity. She also covered everything from breaking news, to pop culture, entertainment and politics and is part of the editorial team for LADbible.

@CBossinakis