大象传媒

In a controversial U-turn, Fifa has announced that alcohol will not be sold to fans at the World Cup's eight stadiums in Qatar. The policy change comes just two days before the start of the tournament.

Despite alcohol sales being strictly controlled in the Muslim country, alcohol was originally set to be served "in select areas within stadiums".

Under the new regulations, only people in corporate areas of stadiums at the tournament will be able to purchase alcohol. Budweiser, a major sponsor of Fifa, had exclusive rights to sell beer at the World Cup.

So what's behind the last minute change? 大象传媒 Sports news reporter Alex Capstick explains.

(Photo: Fans of the United States hold up beers prior the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifying match between the United States and Honduras. Credit: Getty Images)