FIFA to implement tailgating ban at several major US World Cup venues: reports

In just over two months, soccer fans will descend on stadiums across North America for the 2026 FIFAWorld Cup.But those thousands of fans won’t get to take part in a long-running pregame tradition — at least at the venues located in the U.S.

FIFA is set to ban pregame tailgating at U.S.stadiums during the tournament, according to multiple reports Tuesday.NFLvenues such as Arrowhead Stadium, Gillette Stadium and Lincoln Financial Field, among others, were listed as host sites where fans will not be allowed to tailgate this summer.

“FIFA does not have a formal policy that restricts tailgating (eating and drinking around parked cars in stadium areas).However, site-specific restrictions may be imposed in alignment with host city public safety authorities in certain venues based on local regulations.Additional fan information for all FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be communicated in advance of the tournament.” 

A general view shows the empty parking lot at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Sept.14, 2020, as no fans were allowed at the NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants.(Robert Deutsch/USA TODAY Sports)

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Gillette Stadium, the home of the New England Patriots, has banned tailgating, according to the stadium’s official match day checklist. 

“No Tailgating: Please note that the traditional ‘tailgating’(eating and drinking around parked cars) is not permitted for these events,” the website reads.“Open Containers: In Massachusetts, it is illegal to possess or drink from open containers of alcohol in public spaces.” .

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Tailgating has long been synonymous with American sports culture, giving fans a budget-friendly way to enjoy the game-day atmosphere.

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But with that option gone, fans may encounter a very different pregame scene this summer.While FIFA will oversee venues during the tournament, the atmosphere outside them could ultimately prove more challenging to manage.

Real Madrid fans tailgate outside MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, before the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 semi-final match against Paris Saint-Germain on July 9, 2025.(Al Bello/Getty Images)

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The move to outlaw tailgating comes as several host cities adjust transportation plans to ease traffic flow around World Cup venues.Fans attending matches at MetLife Stadium in the New York area will not be able to park in the stadium’s usual gameday lots – another measure that will prevent tailgating as well. 

Fans of Real Madrid tailgate in a parking lot outside Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group H match against FC Red Bull Salzburg on June 26, 2025.(Robbie Jay Barratt/AMA/Getty Images)

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Public transportation is expected to be the primary alternative, though travelers may face higher fares to cross state lines.New Jersey Transitcould charge more than $100 for round-trip service to MetLife Stadium during games, The Athletic reported.

On a typical day, the 18-mile commute commands a fare of less than $13.

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