FIFA has extended its partnership with AB InBev, the brewing company behind popular brands such as Budweiser, Corona, Stella Artois and Hoegaarden ©FIFA

AB InBev, the brewing company behind popular brands such as Budweiser, Corona, Stella Artois and Hoegaarden, have been announced as the official beer sponsor of the 2023 Women's World Cup and the 2026 men's edition.

Beer was a subject of controversy among many others at the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

Organisers in the Gulf nation did a U-turn on beer sales inside stadiums two days before the tournament began.

Budweiser has been the official World Cup beer since the 1986 but FIFA was not able to find a solution in the conservative Muslim nation when it hosted international football's flagship tournament.

"FIFA World Cup tournaments are the most popular sporting events in the world," said Marcel Marcondes, chief marketing officer at AB InBev. 

"We are deeply connected to the fans and to football all over the world, which is why we’re excited about extending the relationship with FIFA.

"Cheering and celebrating over a beer is a part of the experience for billions of football fans.

Organisers in Qatar did a U-turn on beer sales inside stadiums two days before the tournament began ©Getty Images
Organisers in Qatar did a U-turn on beer sales inside stadiums two days before the tournament began ©Getty Images

"We’re proud to continue offering new, meaningful ways to engage with fans and give unrivalled, immersive experiences that connect them to the sport that they love."

The FIFA Women's World Cup is scheduled to be held in Australia and New Zealand from July 20 to August 20.

The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

It will be the first FIFA World Cup hosted by three countries and will also see 48 teams play 104 games.

"We are proud to renew this successful partnership, which will undoubtedly reach new heights in 2023 and 2026," said FIFA chief business officer Romy Gai.

"As one of our longest-standing sponsors, AB InBev’s investment will benefit the game, as well as football development all over the world, while bringing creativity and excitement to the experience that football fans will have during our most iconic tournaments."