The ban on the sale of beer at World Cup stadiums is a last minute U-turn that adds to growing controversy surrounding the event and is likely to cause problems with the tournament's longstanding sponsor, Budweiser.

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There are cans of beer with the World Cup logo.

AFP via Getty Images

Fans will not be able to buy alcohol at stadiums during the World Cup.

Beer and alcohol will still be available in the corporate areas of stadiums, despite the fact that most fans can't afford it.

It is illegal to drink in public in the country and alcohol was set to be sold in limited areas, just two days before the tournament begins.

The tournament will be an enjoyable, pleasant and respectful experience for all, according to the decision made by the world governing body.

The company that sponsors the World Cup and has exclusive rights to sell beer at the tournament is likely to be angry with the decision.

After the announcement, the official account of the company posted a short-lived and now- deleted message that said, "Well, this is awkward..."

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It's not clear what action will be taken by the parent company. The brewery has a $75 million sponsorship deal with soccer's governing body and could view the decision as a major breech of contract. The decision was made on November 12 and the concession stands are being relocated. The goal is to deliver the best possible consumer experience.

Key Background

The World Cup is held every four years. Every step of the way, the bid has been plagued by politics and controversy. Efforts to build the massive stadiums and infrastructure for the event have been overshadowed by the deaths of thousands of migrant workers. Fans may face trouble if they attend the tournament because of the poor human rights record of the country. The environmental cost of hosting the tournament in a desert nation is thought to be substantial, contrary to the host nation's claims. The tournament is being held in November in order to avoid the worst of the summer heat and humidity in the area. Major issues for professional players have been caused by the schedule that conflicts with many major soccer leagues.

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The World Cup is being held in a desert.

The World Cup's highest-paid players.