2034 World Cup Bid: Saudi Arabia ready to lift the ban on alcohol

Saudi Arabia is ready to suspend its alcohol ban to boost its bid to stage the 2034 World Cup.

Fearing thousands of fans would shun a dry tournament, a compromise deal could see booze sold in hotels and restricted fan zones.

The Arab nation became the controversial favourite to host 2034 after Fifa handed the 2030 tournament to Spain, Portugal, and Morocco — plus opening games in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.

The Muslim country outlaws alcohol sale and consumption — and foreigners caught drinking face public flogging, huge fines, lengthy imprisonment, and deportation.

But a Saudi source told The Sun: “Football fans will be allowed to drink if Saudi Arabia stages the World Cup.

 “It has not been publicly discussed but it is an accepted fact.

"We acknowledge very serious mistakes have been made in the past and want the world to understand that we are changing.”

Last year, Qatar broke its promise to allow beer sales at matches just two days before kick-off — banning sponsor Budweiser’s lager until after the evening call to prayer.

Why Saudi Arabia may be all alone in the race to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup

Only FIFA member federations from Asia and Oceania will be able to apply for hosting in 2034 — a tournament with 48 teams playing 104 games over nearly six weeks.