As the World Cup heads into its “winner moves on, loser goes home” phase, people and institutions wishing to host World Cup viewing parties are reminded that certain restrictions apply, said a letter from Msgr. Joseph Brennan, archdiocesan Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia.
“The International Football Federation (FIFA) allows football fans the world over to enjoy the games broadcast on television or over the internet without asking for a license, on one condition: You are not allowed to raise any money from showing the game,” said the letter.
“Parishes and youth groups may host game-watching parties but they cannot use the parties as fundraisers. You may sell food and drinks, but you may not charge more than your actual cost for the items sold — you can’t make a profit. Significant financial penalties may result for violations of the FIFA licensing requirements.”
