Patina Brewing, a brewery in British Columbia, expressed disappointment after FIFA rejected its application to host a public watch party for the 2026 World Cup. The brewery had planned to screen matches on its premises, aiming to bring the community together during the tournament.
FIFA Cites Licensing Restrictions
According to a statement from Patina Brewing, FIFA denied the request due to strict licensing agreements that limit where and how World Cup matches can be broadcast publicly. The brewery had hoped to create a festive atmosphere for fans who could not attend games in person.
“We are really disappointed that we can’t host this event for our community,” said a representative from Patina Brewing. “We had everything ready to go, but FIFA’s rules prevented us from moving forward.”
Impact on Local Businesses
The denial highlights challenges local businesses face when trying to capitalize on major sporting events. Many bars and restaurants across Canada have expressed frustration with FIFA’s stringent broadcast policies, which often require costly licensing fees or restrict public screenings to official fan zones.
Patina Brewing had invested in equipment and promotions for the watch party, which now cannot proceed. The brewery is evaluating alternative ways to engage customers during the World Cup without violating FIFA’s terms.
Community Reaction
Regular patrons of the brewery voiced their disappointment on social media, with some calling for FIFA to relax its rules for small businesses. Others noted that official FIFA fan zones are often located in major cities, leaving smaller communities with limited options.
The brewery hopes that future tournaments will offer more flexibility for local establishments to host viewing events. For now, Patina Brewing will focus on other community activities and wait for the next opportunity to celebrate international soccer.
