During the World Cup, many fans attach an England flag to their car to show support, but drivers have been warned that if they make one error, it could land them with a fine13:52, 05 Jun 2026As England gears up for the start of its World Cup campaign in the USA later this month, countless fans will be eager to demonstrate their backing for the squad. One of the most popular ways of doing this is to attach an England flag to a car window.‌However, British drivers have been cautioned that this could result in a hefty fine of up to £2,500, though only in specific circumstances.‌Under Section 40A of the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is an offence to use a vehicle on a road if its condition, or any accessories fitted to it, could present a danger or cause injury to another person.‌Consequently, if a flag attached to a car somehow comes loose and strikes another person or vehicle, then SeatPick have suggested this could fall under this offence. The maximum fine for a guilty verdict of this offence is £2,500.Discussing the issue, co-founder of SeatPick Gilad Zilberman urged fans to exercise caution with these automotive accessories.‌They said: "Most people have no idea that a single poorly fitted flag could technically put them in breach of two or three separate pieces of legislation at the same time."The fines are not trivial, and in the worst-case scenario, where a flag detaches and causes an accident, you're looking at a potential dangerous driving charge. It really is worth taking two minutes to fit it properly."Gilad stressed that the regulations are not to be taken lightly, as they exist to safeguard other road users, so it's well worth taking a moment to secure any flag correctly.‌They said: "The rules exist to protect other road users, not to stop fans getting behind the team. Fitting a standard window flag sensibly takes a minute, and the vast majority of people who do it carefully will never have any trouble."The fans who run into problems tend to be those using oversized flags, not checking their fittings, or clipping something to the back of the car without realising it's sitting over the number plate. A quick check before kick-off is all it takes."Article continues belowThis follows a separate warning issued to supporters attending World Cup fixtures, after FIFA announced a ban on fans bringing reusable water bottles into stadiums.This is despite sweltering temperatures being predicted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, making it vital that supporters keep themselves hydrated.The Athletic reported that FIFA has revised its code of conduct to state that "reusable water bottles are no longer permitted at the FIFA World Cup stadiums".