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?
The 2022 World Cup host Qatar introduced a 100% alcohol tax last night. Meaning the price of all beer, wine and spirits has now doubled. As a reference point, A 24 crate of beer will now cost in the region of £82.73 and can only be bought with a alcohol permit.
- Mootaz Chehade (@MHChehade) January 1, 2019
World Cup 2022 host Qatar has just introduced 100% alcohol tax. Price of all beer, wine & spirits doubled overnight. Happy New Year
- Kaveh Solhekol (@SkyKaveh) January 1, 2019
Ahead of 2022, Qatar just introduced 100% tax on alcohol. 24 cans of Heineken now costs $105 / £82. Poses challenges for drinkers at World Cup, especially as bags are scanned on entry to country. Also an issue for official sponsor Budweiser and for what happens in Doha fan zones. https://t.co/c4j1jhG7IG
- Prof Simon Chadwick (@Prof_Chadwick) January 1, 2019
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.
Featured Image Credit: PA
Topics: SPORT, Football News, 2022 World Cup, News, Football, England, World Cup, Alcohol, Beer
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