FIFA 2022 World Cup Host Qatar Introduces '100 Percent' Alcohol Tax

This is news that will be of grave concern to many fans wanting to celebrate at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar - the country has just introduced a 100 percent tax on alcohol.

The Gulf state is hosting the next big festival of football, and has now announced a 'sin tax' in a bid to crack down on 'health-damaging' goods.

The price of alcohol was already pretty steep but the new hike will see costs double for punters.

Sky News reported that a one-litre bottle of gin will now set you back 304 Qatari riyals (£73 / $92), while anyone wanting a 24-pack of beer cans of their choice will have to fork out 384 riyals (£83 / $104).

The price of a bottle of wine isn't as hefty, all things considered, with 750ml of South African Shiraz poised to cost 86 riyals (£19 / $23). But come on, who wants to stand with a bottle of red while the football's on?

With flights, tickets and accommodation taken into account, going to a World Cup is already a very expensive trip and it looks like this one will now be even more costly.

Maybe it's best to start saving now as your New Year's resolution...?

As per the Foreign Office, people are not allowed to drink in public because of the country's traditions, though it's noted that alcohol is available at licensed hotel restaurants and bars with a permit.

Those organising the tournament, which will take place in the winter to avoid extreme temperatures, say alcohol will be available in designated areas such as fan parks.