British authorities have updated travel advice for supporters travelling to Mexico for England’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Mexico on 5 July, warning of increased reports of mobile phone theft, drink spiking and passport-related travel complications. The updated guidance comes as thousands of England fans are expected to travel from the United States to Mexico City for the knockout fixture, with officials also reminding travellers that Mexico prohibits the import of e-cigarettes and vaping products.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issued the revised advice after England secured their place in the last 16. The government urged supporters to review its Mexico travel guidance before departure, highlighting security risks linked to the tournament and reminding travellers that an Emergency Travel Document issued by the British Embassy cannot be used to re-enter the United States from Mexico if a passport is lost or stolen.
Foreign Office highlights theft and drink-spiking risks
The updated advice states: “During the tournament, reports of mobile phone thefts and adulterated drinks have increased.”
Officials are advising supporters to remain vigilant in busy areas, particularly around stadiums, public transport and nightlife districts, where large crowds are expected before and after Sunday’s match.
The FCDO also warns travellers not to leave food or drinks unattended in bars or restaurants, noting that criminals have targeted visitors by drugging victims before robbing or assaulting them.
The travel advice adds that anyone intending to return to the United States for later World Cup matches should take extra care with their passport.
“If you plan to return to the US for a later match and your passport is lost or stolen, you will not be able to use an emergency travel document provided by the British Embassy to re-enter the US from Mexico,” the guidance says.
The warning is particularly relevant because many England supporters have followed the team across multiple host countries during the tournament, attending matches in the United States before travelling south to Mexico for the knockout stage.
The government also reminds travellers that the FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel to certain parts of Mexico because of organised crime and violence, although Mexico City remains one of the tournament’s principal host destinations.
Security measures expected for Mexico City clash
England’s meeting with Mexico is expected to be one of the highest-profile matches of the Round of 16, with the host nation anticipated to enjoy overwhelming home support inside the stadium.
British media have reported that additional security measures are expected around England’s team hotel and match operations following concerns over crowd behaviour after Mexico’s victory over Ecuador, when mass celebrations in central Mexico City resulted in fatalities caused by overcrowding.
The FCDO has incorporated those incidents into its World Cup advice, noting that three people died during football celebrations near the Angel of Independence in Mexico City.
Beyond personal security, travellers are also being reminded about Mexico’s strict laws covering electronic cigarettes and vaping devices. Mexico bans the import and commercial sale of e-cigarettes and vapes, and visitors found bringing the products into the country may face confiscation, fines and potential criminal penalties under Mexican law.
The revised guidance forms part of a dedicated World Cup travel advisory covering the tournament being co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada between 11 June and 19 July.
England face Mexico in Mexico City on Sunday evening, 6 pm local time, with the winner progressing to the World Cup quarter-finals.
British officials are encouraging supporters travelling for the match to read the latest entry requirements, safety advice and insurance guidance before departing and to remain aware of local security conditions throughout their stay.
