Alcohol has been banned from World Cup stadiums in Qatar, leaving many fans shocked and angry.

This comes as Qatar changed its stance on serving Budweiser beer at stadiums across the Middle Eastern nation. The U-turn occurred when Qatar asked Fifa to void a multimillion-dollar contract with the beer company.

After discussions between the footballing body and Budweiser, it was decided that the policy would change just two days before the tournament starts (Sunday, November 20).

Amid news of the shift, the Budweiser Twitter account said: "Well, this is awkward" in a now-deleted tweet.

The Northern Echo: PA - Beer ban for Qatari stadiums days before World CupPA - Beer ban for Qatari stadiums days before World Cup (Image: PA)

What have FIFA and fan associations said?

In a statement, a FIFA spokesperson said: "Following discussions between host country authorities and Fifa, a decision has been made to focus the sale of alcoholic beverages on the Fifa fan festival, other fan destinations and licensed venues, removing sales points of beer from Qatar's Fifa World Cup 2022 stadium perimeters.

"There is no impact to the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all Qatar's World Cup stadiums.

"Host country authorities and Fifa will continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and pleasant experience for all fans."

The Football Supporters' Association (FSA) was disappointed with the timing of the move, saying: "Some fans like a beer at a game and some don't, but the real issue is the last minute U-turn which speaks to a wider problem - the total lack of communication and clarity from the organising committee towards supporters.

"If they can change their minds on this at a moment's notice, with no explanation, supporters will have understandable concerns about whether they will fulfil other promises relating to accommodation, transport or cultural issues."

What does the Qatar stadium beer ban mean?

The new beer policy means that the selling and consumption of alcohol on the stadium grounds will be banned except in the corporate areas of the facility.

Alcohol is severely restricted in Qatar, seeing fans limited to drinking alcohol in certain areas.

This comes days before the competition's official kickoff on Sunday when Qatar and Ecuador go head-to-head.

Fans react as beer ban introduced in World Cup stadiums 

Many on Twitter were outraged while others had major concerns over Qatar's handling of the sporting event.

Author and New York Times journalist, Tariq Panja said: "The issue is not if there’s beer or not. The issue is changing the goalposts, so regularly and so close to the event.

"This isn’t how things should go. Makes it appear as if FIFA has lost control over its own event, and that changes dictated on whim/mood of those ruling Qatar."

Another user added: "They are willing to rip up an actual contract with Budweiser because the state's stance against booze.

"Imagine what they could do to the airy, vague assurances they have made about the safety LGBT people and women."

Other users were outraged by the ban, saying: "I hope @Budweiser sue @FIFAcom for everything they have. This corrupt world cup shouldn't be happening."