Expensive drinks frustrate england fans
England’s 1-0 win over New Zealand in Tampa, Florida, was meant to be an important first step in their preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
However, for many supporters, the match was overshadowed by the high cost of drinks at Raymond James Stadium.
England secured the victory thanks to a late header from Harry Kane, but fans at the stadium were also dealing with hot and humid conditions. Many were shocked by the prices they had to pay for refreshments.
High prices at Raymond James Stadium
Screenshots of the drinks menu were shared on social media by Daily Mail chief sports reporter Mike Keegan and Press Association chief football writer Simon Peach.
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The prices quickly caused anger among supporters, with many comparing them to the cost of drinks at major theme parks.
According to the menu, fans had to pay:
- Premium beer: $18 (£13.44)
- Domestic beer: $16.75 (£12.50)
- Ultra premium double cocktail: $26.50, almost £20
- One-litre water: $8.75 (£6.53)
These prices did not include local taxes, meaning the final cost was even higher for fans at the stadium.
Fans react to “scandalous” prices
Many England supporters took to X, formerly Twitter, to complain about the prices.
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One fan wrote: “Five quid for a water in 33 degree C and 50% humidity heat. 15 quid for a beer. Good lord. This World Cup is an obscene cash grab.”
Football writer Simon Mullock also reportedly said: “It was cheaper to get a drink in Qatar”, according to GiveMeSport
The comments show growing concern among fans about how expensive it could be to attend matches at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Kane scores as England win in difficult conditions
On the pitch, England managed to claim a narrow win.
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Harry Kane, who now plays for Bayern Munich, scored the only goal of the match shortly before full-time.
The conditions were difficult, with high temperatures and humidity making the game harder for the players. The pitch was also described as difficult to play on.
England will continue their preparations with a match against Costa Rica on Wednesday. They will then begin their 2026 World Cup group campaign against Croatia seven days later.
World Cup costs could become a big issue
The match in Tampa has raised questions about the cost of attending the 2026 World Cup.
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For many fans, ticket prices, travel, accommodation and food and drink could make the tournament very expensive.
The reaction from England supporters shows that affordability may become one of the biggest talking points before and during the World Cup.
Sources: GiveMeSport
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