A fee with mixed reactions
McGregor Square, a popular gathering spot in Denver’s Lower Highland neighborhood, has begun charging a $23.18 admission fee for certain World Cup matches, a move that has ignited debate among fans, bar owners and local officials.
The price, which includes an additional $3.18 in fees, applies only to a handful of high‑profile fixtures such as England‑Ghana and Panama‑Croatia, while other matches remain free to attend. The fee is framed by square officials as a safety measure to manage crowd size, but critics argue it amounts to a commercial grab.
Noel Hickey, who runs The Celtic on Market, has been vocal about his opposition, stating that the venue’s purpose is to foster community rather than generate extra revenue. “We want to create an atmosphere, not a cash register,” he said, adding that The Celtic will keep its cover charge low to preserve the neighborhood bar vibe.
Kevin Tuohy, general manager of The British Bulldog, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that affordable pricing is essential to maintaining a local hangout. The Bulldog has even expanded its patio to accommodate more supporters without raising prices.
Mike Corbett, who had planned to watch the United States‑Turkey match at the square, called the fee “a total money grab” and said he will skip the game altogether, frustrated by what he sees as a betrayal of the venue’s original intent.
The controversy extends beyond Denver. FIFA has faced criticism for its handling of the 2026 World Cup, with questions rising about how commercial interests intersect with the sport’s global spirit. While some analysts point to the organization’s push for revenue maximization, others warn that over‑commercialization could alienate the very fans the tournament seeks to unite.
Meanwhile, the CU Buffs demonstrated a different approach when they hosted a spring football game at Folsom Field, offering a claimed ticket but charging no entry fee, underscoring that community‑focused events can thrive without a price tag.
As the debate continues, the response from local bars and fans highlights a broader tension between commercial imperatives and the desire to keep soccer accessible. Whether other venues will follow McGregor Square’s model remains to be seen, but the conversation has already reshaped how many view the intersection of sport, profit and public space.