Fury as World Cup pints reach insane £13.44 – ‘scandalous’

With the World Cup 2026 kicking off in just a few days, and the return of alcohol for the tournament after it was banned in 2022, many travelling fans are determined to enjoy themselves. However, it has been revealed that it will be an expensive few weeks and not just for flights, tickets, food and accommodation.

Although they had been pre-warned about the prices of alcohol in the 16 cities across the US, Canada and Mexico, it appears fans have still been caught out by just how much a pint is going to cost over the next few weeks during a friendly at the Raymond James Stadium in Florida between England and New Zealand. In a major shock to attendees, one domestic large beer cost $16.75 (£12.50) while a premium large beer cost an astonishing $18 (£13.44). To make matters worse, the offerings weren’t even chilled – they were lukewarm cans.

After journalist Mike Keegan shared an image of the extortionate drinks menu, fans quickly took to social media to complain. Many have accused the whole tournament of being a money grab, just days after it was revealed that FIFA recently cancelled the free tickets they had given away.

According to LADBible, one fan said: “So glad I’m safely tucked up at home. I’ll keep my cash in the bank. Cheers.”

“£13.50 for a pint? Yeah it might be a sober world cup for most after those flights, hotels, tickets and other expenses,” another said.

A third described the prices as “scandalous” and even “dearer than Disney”.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 23rd iteration of the event, will run from June 11 to July 19. It is being jointly hosted by 16 cities – 11 in the US, three in Mexico and two in Canada – the first to be hosted by three nations and the first to include 48 teams, up from the previous 32.

During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, fans were not allowed to buy alcohol around stadiums, a decision announced just two days before the opening match. Alcohol consumption in Qatar is legal but strictly regulated by conservative Islamic law. Muslims are legally prohibited from consuming or purchasing alcohol. Non-Muslim expats and tourists aged 21 and older can consume alcohol in licensed hotel bars or purchase it for home consumption with a permit. Public intoxication and drinking outside of licensed zones are strict offences.