The real World Cup divide isnt passion. Its price.

For every soccer fan emptying their savings account to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup, there is another staring at the same ticket prices and making a different calculation. Not because they love the game any less.But simply because they refuse to be taken for a ride. The World Cup returns to North America this summer for the first time since 1994, spreading across the United States, Mexico and Canada.

For many supporters, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime event.The kind of experience that justifies maxing out a credit card, draining the vacation fund, or postponing financial investments for a few unforgettable weeks.Belgian superfan Adam El Manawy is one of those believers. In 2022, he drove his 1982 BMW he affectionately calls “The Beast” from Brussels to Qatar to watch his beloved Red Devils play in the World Cup.

This year, he shipped “The Beast” across the Atlantic to start another World Cup pilgrimage.Baltimore to Seattle.

Seattle to Los Angeles.Los Angeles to Vancouver.

Then wherever Belgium’s journey takes him next. The 35-year-old hospitality worker, who moonlights as an actor and director, booked a one-way ticket to Baltimore where he picked up his car and hit the open road.The California Post sat down for an exclusive interview with El Manawy and also made a projection of his costs. Based on the current prices of tickets, gas, hotels and foods across the United States, if Belgium were to reach the semifinals, El Manawy could spend between $12,000 and $15,000 for his adventure.

But for El Manawy, the World Cup isn’t just about soccer.It’s about storytelling.

He documents his entire trip on his Instagram account and YouTube channel.“The adrenaline you get from the World Cup, it’s unlike anything else,” he said.He’s not alone, either. The Post met a Manhattan banking executive whose family is spending nearly $22,000 on World Cup tickets alone this year.Four years ago, they shelled out more than $35,000 for an all-inclusive Qatar ...