African Pillar of Sports and Chief Whip of the Senate, Orji Kalu has weighed in on the alcohol ban in stadiums during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, describing it as unnecessary.
Sen. Kalu made his feeling known in a post on his verified Facebook page on Saturday, November 19, 2022.
According to the former Governor of Abia State, who during his tenure helped Enyimba Football Club win the CAF Champions League and Super Cup back-to-back, fans will be disappointed at being unable to consume beer while watching the “beautiful game”.
He further stated that the alcohol ban could have significant legal implications, as one of the major sponsors of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar is Beer giant, Budweiser, who signed a whopping $75m sponsorship deal with FIFA.
Kalu posted, “The ban on Alcohol at Qatar’s World Cup stadiums is unnecessary. Qatar should consider the impact it has upon those who follow Soccer with great passion.
“Soccer is secular, it knows no religion, culture or tribe. The visiting fans will be disappointed that they can’t watch the beautiful game with a can of Budweiser, Heineken or Guinness at hand.
“Having signed a $75m sponsorship agreement with FIFA, Budweiser will not take this major breach of contract for granted. It could also have a negative impact on developing countries in the future as regards bidding for host of the World Cup.
“Qatar should reconsider their decision and fulfill its promises to visiting fans on cultural issues. There is an international standard on Football and having access to alcohol in the stadium is one of them. It’s an entertainment and entertainment is whole, not in part”.