There are reasons why people might object to a football World Cup in Saudi Arabia in 2034. But the absence of alcohol should surely not be one of them.
Alcohol is, of course, banned in that country, and there is no reason at this stage to believe that the situation will change in the next nine years. So unlike for the 2022 tournament in Qatar, where alcohol was available in some bars, football fans will have to go through the entire six weeks of the competition in Saudi completely sober.
Now, why should that be problem? It’s hardly going to damage their health and wellbeing. Probably the reverse. And while those accustomed to drinking before and after matches will need to get used to a new regime, the experience of travelling around that enormous, fascinating and rapidly changing country will give them all the stimulation they could possibly ask for.
I like a glass or two. But when I’ve travelled to Saudi over the last decade, the absence of booze is the last thing on my mind. Football fans, too, will quickly get used to it. They’ll still support their teams. And my bet is that the tournament might actually be better for being alcohol-free.