How much fans at the 2026 World Cup will now be ‘forced’ to tip as host cities draw up new plans

Fans travelling to the 2026 World Cup are already bracing for eye-watering costs, and now another expense could be added to the list.

Several host cities across the United States are exploring plans that would see visitors automatically charged extra when dining out, in a move that could catch many international supporters off guard.

2026 World Cup host cities consider mandatory 20% service charges

Tipping is nothing new in the United States, but restaurants in cities including Kansas City and Boston, where both England and Scotland are due to play, are reportedly preparing to introduce automatic service charges of between 18% and 22% during the tournament.

The proposal is aimed at addressing concerns that millions of visiting fans, particularly from Europe and Asia, who may be unfamiliar with American tipping culture, where gratuities are typically expected rather than optional.

Local restaurant bodies have encouraged businesses to adopt the policy to ensure staff are fairly compensated, especially with an influx of tourists expected.

In contrast, New Jersey is taking a softer approach, focusing on educating visitors and businesses about cultural differences instead of enforcing blanket charges.

FGG says: Cultural norm or another unnecessary squeeze on World Cup fans?

Tipping is a well-established part of dining in the United States – it is certainly nothing new. But making it effectively mandatory, especially during a global event, is a different conversation entirely.

For many travelling fans already dealing with expensive tickets, inflated accommodation and high transport costs, an added, forced 20% charge could feel like yet another financial hit. It’s one thing to respect local customs, but another to enforce them in a way that removes choice.

There’s surely a balance to be struck here. Ensuring workers are paid fairly is important, but so is transparency and fairness for visitors.

At a tournament that’s already pushing affordability to its limits, this risks becoming another example of costs spiralling beyond what many fans can reasonably manage.