Qatar has banned alcohol from World Cup stadiums just days before the tournament gets underway.

It is believed the move came at the insistence of the country’s Al Thani royal family.

As one of FIFA’s biggest sponsors Budweiser has exclusive rights to sell beer at all World Cup matches.

A tweet from its official account this morning simply said: "Well, this is awkward..."

FIFA later confirmed the news in a statement.

"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,” it said

It added it would "continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and pleasant experience for all fans".