These Photos Do Not Show Alcoholic Cans at the 2022 FIFA World Cup Stadiums
The Claim
Two photos show how fans smuggled alcohol into World Cup 2022 stadiums.
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Emerging story
Two photos purportedly showing alcohol cans covered in fake Coca-Cola and Pepsi wraps in order to smuggle alcohol into World Cup 2022 tournament stadiums have gone viral among social media users.
The first photo shows a Heineken can with a Pepsi wrapper.
The second photo shows a 5.5% alcohol can with a fake Coke wrapper.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar investigated the circulating photo and found the claim to be misleading.
After conducting a thorough reverse image search, Misbar discovered that the photos are outdated and unrelated to the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Attempts to Smuggle Beer Into Saudi Arabia
The first widely circulated photo was published in a Telegraph article on November 13, 2015.
The photo caption reads, "Alcohol seized by customs in Saudi Arabia."
Alcohol Cans Covered in Coca-Cola Wrapping
Smugglers were apprehended while attempting to enter Saudi Arabia with tens of thousands of alcohol cans disguised as Pepsi cans.
The fake wrapping was removed by customs agents, revealing Heineken beer cans.
An estimated 48,000 beer cans with Pepsi branding were discovered.
According to Border general manager Abdulrahman al-Mahna, the truck was stopped and appeared to be carrying regular Pepsi cans.
FIFA Bans Selling Alcohol at Qatar World Cup Stadiums
On November 18, Qatar issued a statement following discussions with the host country to remove beer sales points from the perimeters of Qatar's FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums.
Alcoholic beverages will be sold primarily at the FIFA Fan Festival, other fan destinations, and licensed venues.
"There is no impact to the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all Qatar’s World Cup stadiums," added the FIFA statement.
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