World Cup tailgating ban stirs debate among American soccer fans

In just over two months, soccer fans will descend on stadiums across North America for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But those thousands of fans won’t be able to take part in a long-standing pre-game tradition – at least in stadiums located in the United States.

FIFA is moving to ban pre-matches in U.S. stadiums during the tournament, according to multiple reports Tuesday. NFL venues such as Arrowhead Stadium, Gillette Stadium and Lincoln Financial Field, among others, have been listed as host sites where fans will not be allowed to go this summer.

It is not immediately clear what led to this decision or why it is being introduced.

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

The governing body and tournament organizer may be aiming to avoid crowd control issues similar to those that emerged at the Copa América in Miami. Large gatherings outside the stadium’s entrance gates fueled logistical hurdles.

Tailgating has long been synonymous with American sports culture, providing fans with a cost-effective way to enjoy the game day atmosphere.

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But with that option removed, fans could encounter a very different pregame scene this summer. Although FIFA will supervise the venues during the tournament, the atmosphere outside could prove more difficult to manage.

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

The decision to ban tailgating comes as several host cities adjust their transportation plans to ease traffic around World Cup venues. Fans attending games at MetLife Stadium in the New York area will not be able to park in the stadium’s regular parking lots.

Real Madrid fans in a parking lot outside Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, before the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup 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, although travelers may face higher fares to cross state lines. New Jersey Transit could charge more than $100 for round-trip service to MetLife Stadium during games, The Athletic reported.

On a typical day, the 18-mile trip costs less than $13.

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