World Cup fans hoping to enjoy a few pints during the tournament are facing steep prices, with some stadium beers costing up to £14. As England prepares to face Croatia in Dallas next week, supporters attending warm-up matches have already encountered 'scandalous' drink costs.
Shocking Prices at US Venues
At England's friendly against New Zealand in Tampa, a premium beer was priced at $18 (£13.45), while a domestic beer cost $16.75 (£12.50). Notably, US pints are 473ml, smaller than the standard 568ml served in UK pubs.
Social media images from a FIFA fan festival in Kansas City, where England is based, revealed even higher prices: a pint of Stella or Budweiser at $19 (£14.20), a non-alcoholic version for $12, soft drinks at $7 (£5.20), and water at $4 (£2.99). Snacks like Doritos were $5.
Venue-Specific Costs
At AT&T Stadium in Dallas, home to England's match against Croatia, imported beers like Stella cost $16.95 (£12.62), while domestic options are slightly cheaper at $15.95 (£11.88). Prices vary across the 16 venues in three host nations.
Seattle's Lumen Field, a 72,000-seat venue hosting matches like Belgium vs Egypt and USA vs Australia, lists 'American Beer' at $17.99 (£13.50) and craft or import options at $18.99 (£14.20).
Water Bottle Policy Reversal
After backlash, FIFA reversed its policy on water bottles. Fans can now bring one factory-sealed plastic water bottle (20 oz/590ml) to matches in the US and Canada. Previously, reusable bottles were banned despite earlier assurances.
With soaring temperatures expected, this change offers some relief for attendees looking to stay hydrated without paying high prices for drinks.
