Bars, restaurants, and cafes in Uzbekistan say they are being forced to pay a $1,000 fee for permission to show matches of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, which begins in Brazil on June 12.
Owners of bars and restaurants in Uzbekistan say that they were instructed by the National Television and Radio Company (MTRK) to first sign contracts with the company that will allow them to legally show the matches to their customers.
The bar owners say the MTRK threatened to impose fines if they do not comply.
An unnamed official of the MTRK confirmed the information to RFE/RL on June 11.
The World Cup kicks off on June 12 when Brazil plays Croatia.
Owners of bars and restaurants in Uzbekistan say that they were instructed by the National Television and Radio Company (MTRK) to first sign contracts with the company that will allow them to legally show the matches to their customers.
The bar owners say the MTRK threatened to impose fines if they do not comply.
An unnamed official of the MTRK confirmed the information to RFE/RL on June 11.
The World Cup kicks off on June 12 when Brazil plays Croatia.