Mexican fans caught smuggling booze in binoculars into World Cup stadium

Mexican footy fans tried to sneak booze-filled binoculars into a World Cup stadium in Qatar, but it didn’t quite go to plan.

Qatari officials were filmed suspiciously eyeing the binoculars, with one even putting them against his face to try and see through.

Another officer then noticed a screwed cap between the two lenses and, after removing the cap and smelling its contents, it became clear what was inside.

The binoculars were confiscated, much to their dismay, but the footage of their attempt went viral.

It comes days after Qatar banned the sale of alcohol at its stadiums.

FIFA confirmed no one attending matches will be able to consume alcohol within the stadium perimeter, with the exception of corporate spectators.

Fans can still have a drink in designated zones, but sponsor Budweiser has been left unhappy.

It reportedly paid FIFA around £62million every four years to be one of its top-level partners.

The company tweeted from its main account on Friday: ‘Well, this is awkward’ – a post which was then deleted.

FIFA said 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.

‘There is no impact to the sale of Bud Zero which will remain available at all Qatar’s World Cup stadiums.

‘Host country authorities and FIFA will continue to ensure that the stadiums and surrounding areas provide an enjoyable, respectful and pleasant experience for all fans.

‘The tournament organisers appreciate AB InBev’s understanding and continuous support to our joint commitment to cater for everyone during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.’

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

For more stories like this, check our news page.