2026 World Cup: No Barbecues in Parking Lots Before Matches? Fifas Decision on…

The “tailgate,” a practice of gathering around a car trunk to eat and drink before games, could be highly restricted during the 2026 World Cup. This ritual is particularly popular among American fans.

It is a pre-match tradition that could be severely limited – or even completely eliminated – during the upcoming World Cup (June 11-July 19). As reported by The Athletic, FIFA is expected to impose restrictions regarding the “tailgate” tradition, a practice of American fans gathering around a car trunk to eat and drink several hours before sporting events.

The FIFA confirms specific restrictions at certain sites

American supporters are particularly fond of this ritual, especially among NFL fans. Controversy has escalated in recent days on social media, prompting FIFA to respond. “FIFA does not have an official policy prohibiting ‘tailgating’,” the organization stated in a message posted on X. “However, specific restrictions at certain sites may be imposed in consultation with the public safety authorities of the host city, depending on local regulations.”

It all started with a recent announcement from the Boston organizing committee, where Gillette Stadium is located. It mentioned that FIFA had banned “tailgating” for the World Cup. “Additional information for fans regarding all matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be communicated before the start of the tournament,” FIFA clarified in its message on social media.

During the competition, FIFA will have total control of the stadiums, including the parking lots. Each local organizing committee will be responsible for supervising security operations. Each situation will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on the location of the parking lots. The “tailgate” tradition can also take place after the games. During the American tour at the end of March, a group of French nationals held a “tailgate” on the sidelines of the friendly matches of the French team.