Ban on Beer is Latest Flash Point in World Cup Culture Clash

Qatar’s about-face on alcohol signaled that FIFA, soccer’s governing body, may no longer be in full control of its showcase championship.

Budweiser cans on a shelf

Qatar’s ban on beer in stadiums complicated FIFA’s relationship with Budweiser, which pays $75 million every four years to be associated with the World Cup. Patrick T. Fallon/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

Doha, Qatar — Two days before the tournament’s opening match, organizers reversed a policy that had promised fans alcohol at stadiums, a decision that laid bare how much control FIFA had ceded to its hosts.