Millions of Brits warned they've already broken the law ahead of World Cup 2026
Well, the day’s finally here LADs, the 2026 World Cup kicks off in Mexico tonight (11 June).
Scotland play their first game against Haiti in the early hours of Sunday (14 June) and England face Croatia next Wednesday night (17 June).
So, with hours to go until the first bit of football of the tournament, it’s likely you’ve already been dragged into at least one sweepstake by now.
Everyone in the office is already complaining about the teams they’ve drawn as the early acceptance settles in that they won’t be seeing the prize.
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But amid all the fun, an important warning has been issued over World Cup sweepstakes in workplaces by the Gambling Commission.
And while some slam the watchdog as the ‘fun police’, it might be important to check out their advice so you don’t get carried away this summer.
Sharing a post on social media, the Gambling Commission reminded people not to score an ‘own goal’ as it listed: “Keep it to your physical workplace.
“Just for fun, or for charity – but no profit allowed. You don’t need a licence if you keep to the rules!”
On its site, the watchdog breaks down its guidance to running a ‘work lottery’ as it makes it clear a profit cannot be made. Instead, proceeds must either be used for reasonable expenses or prizes, or donated to charity.
Cash prizes are allowed for participants of course, it's just that the organiser cannot make a 'profit'. That office legend who does organise can participate themselves and win a cash prize though.
When running one of these, everyone who is taking part must all work in the same physical location – you can’t run a work lottery across multiple sites.
And if you’re organising the sweepstake by emailing or calling your colleagues, remember that it has to be physical tickets that are sold in person at your place of work – not online, via email or over the phone.
The draw can’t’ be done online either, it has to be done at your business’ physical premises.
People have to pay the same price for each ticket also, there can’t be any charging your office enemy extra for their team.
When it comes to the costs, you are allowed to claim money for prizes and reasonable running costs using the money you raise.
And the prizes can’t rollover to another lottery, whoever wins the sweepstake wins the prize – don’t be making them wait for the next tournament LADs.
Well, even if you think they’re being the ‘fun police’ over your light-hearted sweepstake, at least the watchdog is keeping you out of trouble as you draw New Zealand and Curaçao.
Please gamble responsibly. For help, support and advice about problem gambling, contact the National Gambling Helpline anytime on 0808 8020 133.
How much does it cost to attend the World Cup?
Football fans wanting to watch the games in person better have deep pockets. Here’s what flights, accommodation, tickets and food and drink will cost England supporters:
Getting there
If you fancied catching England’s opening game against Croatia next Wednesday (17 June), a return flight from London to Dallas, Texas would set you back around £700, according to Skyscanner.
The second and third games are a little cheaper to get to - £400 if you want to watch the Three Lions go up against Ghana in Boston on 23 June, and £500 to see them play Panama in New York on 27 June.
But now you need somewhere to stay.
Hotel costs
NBC has crunched the numbers on hotels, looking at the average for the five cheapest hotels within 15 miles of the station as of late last month.
In Atlanta for the opening match, the average hotel room is £350 for two nights, and that’s on the cheap side.
A hotel to watch the second game in the group stages in Boston will cost £725, and the third in New York will be £485.
Now to get your ticket for the game…
Ticket prices
Tickets for the opening game against Croatia are still available and going from £430, via Seatpick.
England vs Ghana will set you back at least £330, and the match against Panama £250.
I bet all that number crunching has made you thirsty…
Food and drink prices at the World Cup
Unlike in the UK, football fans are allowed to drink in the stands in the US, Canada and Mexico - if they’re made of money, that is.
Prices at a warm-up match between England and New Zealand at the Raymond James stadium in Tampa, Florida on Saturday (6 June) might give an indication of what to expect in the World Cup proper, which is bad news for fans.
A large beer was advertised at $18.75 (£13.99), while just a bottle of water was priced at $7.50 (£5.60).
Meanwhile, according to Football Ground Guide, a basic meal and a beer will set you back $23.88 (£17.83) at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, where England’s first game will take place.
For England’s second game at the Boston Stadium (also known as the Gillette Stadium), according to Football 2026 hot dogs are going from £6.30, while burgers will set you back £10.45.
Meanwhile, a basic meal and a beer at the MetLife stadium for England’s match against Panama will cost you £24.87.
Jess Battison