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2022 World Cup: Polish football fans warned of strict alcohol rules in Qatar

15.11.2022 17:00
Polish football fans heading for the World Cup in Qatar have been warned of strict alcohol regulations in that country.
Poland players, led by captain Robert Lewandowski (right), in training ahead of the World Cup.
Poland players, led by captain Robert Lewandowski (right), in training ahead of the World Cup.Photo: PAP/Leszek Szymański

In an advice brochure, the Polish foreign ministry has offered safety tips to fans, in addition to practical information on the conditions of entry and stay in Qatar.

The Polish foreign ministry said in the booklet that bringing alcohol into Qatar is prohibited and that drinking and being intoxicated in public places is punishable by a steep fine or imprisonment.

It noted that alcohol would be available in designated areas during the World Cup.

The Polish foreign ministry also warned that extramarital sex is forbidden in Islam and that tourists are not allowed to bring "pork, drugs and pornographic materials" into Qatar.

The ministry’s interactive brochure, which can be used on mobile devices, tells fans what they should do if they lose their identity document, for example.

The brochure furnishes the contact details of the Polish embassy in Doha.

Image: Image: Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Around 60,000 fans are expected to support the Polish team at the tournament in Qatar, according to news reports.

The 2022 World Cup kicks off on Sunday and runs until December 18. Poland take on Mexico, Saudi Arabia and Argentina in the group stage of the tournament.

Poland will open their campaign against Mexico at Stadium 974 in Doha on November 22.

Manager Czesław Michniewicz's men will take on Saudi Arabia at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan, near Doha, on November 26 and play Argentina at Stadium 974 in Doha four days later.

Poland failed to advance to the knockout phase of the 2018 World Cup in Russia after losing 1-2 to Senegal and 0-3 to Colombia in the group stage. Poland won their final game, beating Japan 1-0, but finished bottom of their Group H and made an early exit from the tournament more than four years ago.

Poland finished third in the 1974 World Cup in West Germany and were also third in Spain in 1982.

(gs) 

Source: IAR, PAP, polskieradio24.pl