England and Scotland football supporters are being cautioned about the possibility of imprisonment in Mexico during the 2026 World Cup. The Foreign Office has released guidance indicating that fans could face arrest and short-term detention if caught driving under the influence of alcohol. Additionally, supporters risk arrest or a £200 fine for consuming alcohol in public spaces, including areas outside restaurants and stadiums in Mexico.
UK Government Issues Similar Advice for the US
The UK government has provided comparable guidance regarding alcohol consumption in the United States, where holding a pint or an open can in public is illegal in many states. Tens of thousands of England and Scotland supporters are expected to attend matches and travel across the US, Mexico, and Canada—the three host nations—despite the high costs of tickets, hotels, and transportation.
World Cup Kicks Off in Mexico City
The official UK travel advice coincides with the tournament's start at 8 PM UK time on Thursday, featuring the Group A match between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City. In its World Cup guidance for Mexico, the Foreign Office states: "The national legal age for drinking alcohol in Mexico is 18. It is illegal to drink in public places, including outside restaurants, theatres and stadiums. Doing so could lead to a £200 fine or arrest."
Drink Driving Penalties
Specifically addressing drink driving, the guidance adds: "Drink-driving is a serious offence in Mexico and checkpoints are often set up. If you’re caught driving under the influence of alcohol, penalties include fines and short-term detentions." The advice also highlights that it is illegal to bring e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and solutions into Mexico or to buy and sell them.
Potential Matches in Mexico for England and Scotland
Both England and Scotland could find themselves playing in Mexico if they advance through the tournament. England, placed in Group L with Croatia, Ghana, and Panama, could face Mexico in Mexico City on July 6 if they reach the last 16. Scotland, in Group C alongside Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti, might qualify as a third-place team. In that scenario, their opponents in the last 32 could be Germany, France, or Mexico, with matches scheduled in Boston on June 29, New Jersey on June 30, or Mexico City on July 1.
Political Protests Warning
The Foreign Office is also advising fans to avoid engaging in ongoing political protests in Mexico City. "It is illegal for foreign nationals to participate in political activities in Mexico," the guidance stresses. "If you join demonstrations, the Mexican authorities may detain and deport you. If you come across protests, move away from the area. Monitor local media to understand possible disruption to your travel and plan extra time for your journeys."
Additional Travel Advice
The government's travel advice for Mexico covers visas, ticket purchasing (including risks of unofficial sites), travel insurance, accommodation, transport, and fan zones. It states: "You should carry your passport with you, especially when travelling from state to state via bus or car. Immigration officers do not accept copies or photos of documents. If protests take place, follow the instructions of local authorities."
