England fans planning to travel to the World Cup have been cautioned about a little-known law that could land them in trouble before they even reach their destination. Approximately 65,000 supporters are expected to travel from the UK, with both England and Scotland competing in the tournament.
Group Stage Locations and Potential Mexico Matches
England's group stage fixtures are scheduled in Dallas, Boston, and New Jersey. However, if Thomas Tuchel's side progresses to the knockout stages, they could play at least one match in Mexico, where a strict vaping ban could cause significant issues for unaware fans.
Mexico's Strict Vaping Laws
Over five million Brits currently vape, but those hoping to use their devices in Mexico will face severe penalties. It is illegal to bring vaping devices or vape liquids into the country. Customs officials actively scan bags to enforce this rule, and those caught face immediate punishment.
- A single vaping device can trigger a fine of up to 17,000 pesos (around £800).
- Attempting to sell or distribute vapes can result in a fine of 212,500 pesos (around £9,400) and up to eight years in prison.
Mexico has some of the strictest vaping laws globally, introduced as part of a public health campaign to reduce nicotine addiction and protect young people. The ban applies to both nicotine and nicotine-free vaping products, meaning any device designed for vaping is prohibited.
Public Smoking and Vaping Restrictions
Smoking or vaping in public places can also lead to fines. Fans should not assume they can step outside a bar, stadium, or fan zone and vape as they would at home.
US Drinking Age Warning
Fans heading to the USA could also be caught out by the legal drinking age, which is 21 rather than 18. This means supporters who can legally buy a pint in the UK may not be able to do so at the World Cup. Jon Fisher, football expert at 101 Great Goals, warned that younger England supporters could easily get caught out if they treat the World Cup like a normal away day.
"This is exactly the kind of thing that can ruin a once-in-a-lifetime trip," he said. "In England, turning 18 means you can go to the pub, buy a pint and celebrate with your mates. In America, that same supporter is still underage, and that can come as a massive shock to young fans travelling for the World Cup."
Fisher added: "Parents, older siblings and mates need to be careful too. Buying a drink for someone who is 19 or 20 might feel completely normal at home, but in the US it can become a serious issue very quickly. The World Cup is going to be incredible, but fans have to remember they are travelling across countries where the laws can change from one border, state or venue to the next."
Mexico's Drinking Age vs Vape Ban
While Mexico's drinking age is 18, which feels more familiar to British fans, the rules around vapes are much tougher. Packing a vape because you use one at home could cause problems before you have even left the airport.
"No England fan wants their tournament story to be missing kick-off because they argued over ID, got refused entry, had something confiscated, or fell foul of a law they didn't know existed," Fisher concluded. "The message is simple: check the rules before you travel, check them again before matchday, and don't assume that being legal in England means you're legal at the World Cup."
