England and Wales followers supporting their groups within the 2022 Men’s World Cup in Qatar have been warned to organise lodging and Covid assessments prematurely – and to avoid medicine.
One month earlier than the controversial soccer match kicks off, the Foreign Office has issued stern recommendation to supporters of the 2 groups.
Stricter legal guidelines govern behaviour, alcohol and medicines in Qatar than within the earlier World Cup, in Russia in 2018.
“Homosexuality is illegal in Qatar,” the FCDO makes clear. However, officers say the host authorities “have publicly confirmed that there will be no restrictions on non-married friends or couples (including LGBT people) staying in the same room”.
On alcohol, the FCDO says: “Alcohol is currently only available to visitors at licensed hotel restaurants and bars, with additional availability expected at certain fan zone sites during the tournament.”
Fans are warned: “The importation of alcohol into the State of Qatar is illegal. You will not be able to purchase alcohol from duty free in airports to take into Qatar.
“It is not possible to buy alcohol in shops. There is only one distributor in country, and this is restricted to residents with a valid permit.
“The legal drinking age in Qatar is 21. It is an offence to drink alcohol or be drunk in a public place.”
There is zero tolerance for consuming and driving – and likewise for the possession or use of medication.
The Foreign Office says: “If you need to bring controlled/prescription medication into Qatar, make sure you carry it in its original packaging, accompanied by your prescription and an official letter signed and stamped by your doctor stating the type of medication and why it’s required.”
On unlawful medicine, the FCDO says: “You can expect a severe penalty for possession of even residual amounts.” Penalties embody “lengthy custodial sentences, heavy fines and deportation”.
The international secretary, James Cleverly, stated: “We want all travelling Brits to enjoy their World Cup experience, and they are more likely to do so if they prepare before they go.”
Paul Corkrey of Fan Embassy Wales stated:“This is our first World Cup in a generation and we know the Welsh fans will be determined to enjoy the experience.
“It is a trip to the unknown but information is available and we urge the Red Wall to bookmark the FCDO travel advice website.”
All followers would require a Covid take a look at – both PCR taken within the 48 hours earlier than departure to Qatar, or speedy antigen (lateral movement) within the earlier 24 hours.
Normal tourism to Qatar has been suspended from 1 November to the top of the match on 18 December.
Source: www.impartial.co.uk