A sports enthusiast, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has condemned the directive banning the sale of alcohol around stadiums in Qatar during the World Cup 2022 tournament.
The Chief Whip of the Senate and a former Abia governor appealed to authorities in Qatar to consider the impact of the ban upon those who follow Soccer with great passion, adding that soccer is secular, and knows no religion, culture, or tribe.
In a statement on Saturday personally endorsed by Sen. Kalu expressed concern that the visiting fans who will be flying in from all over the world will be disappointed at the policy.
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He said, “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 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.”