England football fans visiting the United States for the 2024 FIFA World Cup have been cautioned to “show respect” during their stay. With their first match against Croatia taking place in Dallas, local authorities are emphasizing the importance of maintaining decorum to prevent potential incidents of hooliganism.
Dallas has a zero-tolerance policy towards disorderly conduct, particularly given that nearly half of its residents reportedly own firearms. This context has raised concerns about the potential consequences of unruly behavior by visiting supporters.
Paul Limpitlaw, an England fan who now resides in Dallas, expressed that locals are entitled to defend themselves if they feel threatened. He stated, “It’s going to be a fantastic football party, but anyone thinking of coming to cause trouble should think again.” Limpitlaw, an avid supporter of Aston Villa, highlighted that many residents carry licensed firearms and warned that situations could escalate rapidly if fans engage in disruptive behavior.
Limpitlaw recounted his personal experience, noting that he adopted the local gun culture after an attempted mugging 15 years ago. He possesses a collection of weapons valued at approximately £75,000, which he uses for shooting ranges and hunting trips. This arsenal includes Glock and Sig pistols, assault rifles, and an AK-47 Kalashnikov.
According to statistics from Statista, Texas had the highest number of registered firearms in the United States in 2024, with over 1.1 million weapons. Bryan Rastok, a spokesperson for a local gun store, noted that the prevalence of firearms in the area tends to deter individuals from causing trouble, stating, “If you threaten people here, there’s a chance you’re gonna get shot.”
Local law enforcement is prepared for any potential disruptions. Mark Villarreal, assistant chief of the Dallas Police, confirmed that officers are “ready” to respond to any hooligans, with “rapid response teams on standby.” Villarreal reassured fans, saying, “England fans will have nothing to fear and will have a great time, provided they behave themselves and show respect.”
In a notable change from previous tournaments, England and Scotland fans will be permitted to drink beer in their seats during the matches. FIFA has announced that it will not enforce the long-standing ‘no boozing’ rule that has been in place in Britain for the past 40 years. This decision applies to the tournament jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
As the World Cup approaches, fans from Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland are hopeful that their teams will qualify, adding to the excitement surrounding the event. With the atmosphere set to be vibrant, the emphasis remains on respectful and responsible behavior among supporters.
