FIFA clarifies tailgating stance after backlash as Boston reverses World Cup car-park barbecue ban | OneFootball

A public backlash over World Cup tailgating bans has prompted a swift reset, with Boston restoring pre-match barbecues and FIFA clarifying there is no blanket prohibition. According to L'Équipe, several US host cities had told fans the parking-lot parties would be off limits.

Tailgating, rooted in the NFL and college sport, sees thousands arrive hours early to grill and socialise around open car boots and portable TVs. Many had anticipated a summer of gatherings across 78 World Cup matches in the United States.

The flashpoint came on 14 April, when Boston’s organising committee posted a notice stating traditional tailgates, eating and drinking around parked cars, were not permitted for tournament events. It cited compliance with FIFA policy, fuelling fears the curb would also hit Atlanta, Dallas and the MetLife Stadium final in New Jersey. The message jarred with locals used to Gillette Stadium tailgates and with an expected 2 million visitors, including France fans for the 26 June group game against Norway.

There is no official FIFA policy forbidding tailgating, although site-specific restrictions may be agreed with local public-safety authorities. Boston later removed the FIFA reference and, late on Monday, said a misunderstanding had been resolved and that all pre-match gatherings would be allowed as for any other event at the venue.

Limits will remain. Parking that usually holds 20,000 cars for New England Patriots games will be capped at 5,000 during the tournament to create a security perimeter. With 65,000 supporters expected at each of seven Boston fixtures, tailgate spots could prove more coveted than match tickets.

Other host cities have yet to set out their plans.

Source: L'Équipe