Stadiums expected to ban pre-match tradition of tailgating at every World Cup match

Multiple stadiums in the United States are expected to ban the pre-match tradition of tailgating at this summer's World Cup, according to reports.

For those unaware, tailgating is a popular American pre-game social event where fans gather around the stadium car park hours before kick-off to have a party that often features barbecues, tents and music.

Although the concept is unfamiliar in parts of Europe, the communal ritual has been around for many years across North America, so many expected it to be a common theme this summer, when the World Cup rolls around.

However, a number of venues are set to ban tailgating, according to a report from talkSPORT, with Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas, Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts and Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia being named.

For example, the local organising committee at the Gillette Stadium, which will be known as Boston Stadium for the World Cup, has said that tailgating will be outright banned.

On the stadium website, it reads: "Please note that the traditional 'tailgating' (eating and drinking around parked cars) is not permitted for these events per FIFA policy."

New England Patriots fans tailgate outside of Gillette Stadium. Image credit: Getty

The MetLife Stadium in New York are also taking action, with organisers encouraging all attendees to avoid driving.

“While rideshare and limited premium parking options will be available, the FIFA World Cup at NYNJ Stadium will largely rely on public transportation,” said spokesperson Natalie Hamilton, as per USA Today.

FIFA respond to reports that tailgating will be banned at the World Cup

On Tuesday, X account DW Sports reported that tailgating would be banned at the World Cup.

The post read: "US fans typically park near stadiums before a sporting event to eat, drink, and socialize. But tailgating is set to be prohibited at several venues during the tournament. Many US stadiums are in suburbs and mainly accessible by car."

FIFA responded to the post by saying it does not have a rule banning them, although "site-specific restrictions may be imposed" based on certain measures.

A spokesman for FIFA wrote: "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."

They added: "Additional fan information for all FIFA World Cup 2026 matches will be communicated in advance of the tournament."