🎧 The American Dream, Fanatical Mexico, and $20 Beers: FutbalTour CEO on the Reality of the World Cup Overseas

In a captivating interview with hosts Julo and Muťo, he unveiled the true workings of the overseas tournament, detailed the astronomical prices, but most importantly, described the genuine football euphoria that currently unites nations from around the world, both inside and outside the stadiums.

For a European fan, heading to a football match in the USA, Mexico, or Canada means a slight culture shock. While modern and massive arenas may not offer the traditional European football romanticism of old stadiums nestled in urban neighborhoods, they fully compensate with unparalleled comfort and non-stop entertainment.

According to Matej Očenáš, fears of safety issues or conflicts between fan groups at the tournament were completely unfounded. Supporters from different countries are thoroughly intermingled in the stands, collectively creating a friendly atmosphere.

However, the trip itself to the tournament venue represents a significant financial burden, further amplified by prices on-site. Beer costing almost 20 dollars and exorbitantly priced tickets, from which FIFA itself heavily profits through official resales, do not deter fans.

“A group of three ordinary Scottish lads went to a match, and it cost them fifteen thousand pounds for two weeks. One Scot sold his car and had problems back home,” he recounted with astonishment, highlighting the dedication of some World Cup attendees.

The perception of football in Mexico is an entirely separate chapter. While the tournament might get a bit lost in the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle of New York City, the streets of the Mexican capital breathe football at every turn, with jerseys worn by practically everyone from children to waiters. The absolute peak is the spontaneous, vibrant post-match celebrations, which are truly unparalleled.

“After the match, a summer storm hit, a truly massive downpour. Despite that, eight hundred thousand people went into the city to a square to celebrate and stayed there until five in the morning. People were sliding, tumbling, throwing each other into the air,” the head of FutbalTour summarized his strong impressions of the Mexican frenzy.

In the latest episode of the Striedame! podcast on ŠPORT.sk, Matej Očenáš also answered questions about the smoothness of the arrival and visa process in the USA, his views on the continuous expansion and commercialization of the World Cup, how easily one might encounter major football stars cycling on the street, why he believes the final could be a repeat of the last World Cup in Qatar, and who currently has the best chance of claiming the Golden Boot.