Before the Qatar World Cup, organisers responded to questions over possible discrimination by saying “everyone is welcome” at the event, a tone reprised by Prince Khalid when asked about the subject in relation to 2034.
Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud also said “we will welcome everyone” when asked to address the safety of LGBTQ+ people at the controversial tournament.
The Saudi Arabian ambassador to the UK has told football fans “plenty of fun can be had without alcohol” as he warned them not to expect to drink if they attend the 2034 World Cup.
The Guardian has previously reported that Fifa has decided not to press local organisers to sell beer inside stadiums during the World Cup, mindful of the embarrassing reverse that took place in 2022 when Qatari officials pushed back against beer sales at matches.
In an interview with LBC, Prince Khalid said: “At the moment, we don’t allow alcohol, but you know, plenty of fun can be had without alcohol.