Saudi Arabian government is reportedly considering allowing the sale and consumption of alcohol in hotels and restricted “fan zones” if the country is granted the right to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia officially announced its intention to bid for the 2034 World Cup recently, sparking controversy and criticism due to concerns about the country’s human rights record.
President of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), Yasser Al Misehal, said in a statement released on the SAFF website: ‘We believe the time is right for Saudi Arabia to host the FIFA World Cup.
“It has not been publicly discussed but it is an accepted fact,” a source told The Sun, according to Daily Mail.
The source told The Sun: “We acknowledge very serious mistakes have been made in the past and want the world to understand that we are changing.”
This plan would be a significant departure from the country’s strict ban on alcohol as the sale and consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited in Saudi Arabia and foreigners caught drinking can face public flogging, fines, imprisonment and deportation.
The move is seen as an effort to make the country more appealing to FIFA as it bids to host the prestigious tournament.
