Starbucks kicks into World Cup 2026 with return of ‘Bearista’ cup and other limited-edition giveaways

The Bearista cup chaos is back again — hopefully without the brawls.

Starbucks is kicking off World Cup 2026 by causing another stir with a twist on its adorable, but pricey, ‘Bearista” cup.

The coffeehouse first rolled out the cute teddy bear back in November 2025 as a 20-ounce glass with a cozy Starbucks-green beanie — or lid — and matching striped straw for stylish sipping.

Fans flocked to stores to try and grab theirs with no luck — just many Bearista brawls.

As eager customers were staking out stores for hours just to try and grab the $30 novelty, they realized only a few cups were even available to buy, and baristas got in on the action.

“Not cool marketing, Starbucks, to only have one to two at each store and allow your baristas to buy them before customers. You should have had additional stock for your baristas and at least 10 to 20 for each store,” someone on social media said.

The scarce bear cups caused so much anger that Starbucks was forced to issue a public apology in a statement to The Post.

“The excitement for our merchandise exceeded even our biggest expectations,” a Starbucks spokesperson said. 

“Despite shipping more Bearista cups to coffeehouses than almost any other merchandise item this holiday season, the Bearista cup and some other items sold out fast,” they added.

Starbucks has since changed the game, selling the newer, soccer-themed cups online to Starbucks Rewards members — by invite only — starting on June 11.

Fans can now score the same sweet Bearista Cup with a soccer-themed hat and scarf to match.

The Post has not heard back from Starbucks about the price.

While the cups may not officially be tied to the FIFA World Cup, Starbucks said in a press release that it was “inspired by the global game.”

US coffee lovers can check the Starbucks Shop starting today, but you must be a member of the Starbucks Rewards Reserve.

These members are the elite of the elite, with top-tier status in the loyalty program, hitting at least 2,500 Stars within a rolling 12-month period.

The next time you visit your local location, your Starbucks drink may be getting a new sleeve.

And you don’t need to be top tier.

At participating stores in the US (the locations of which the brand is keeping under wraps), a limited-edition sleeve will be added to your cup — whether you ask or not — inspired by the team captain’s armband.

Each sleeve in the US will sport a red and black pattern with a huge C in the middle, making you the captain of your coffee. 

Coffeehouses across the globe will also host the masses and send you off with a captain’s cup sleeves inspired by your local team.

But you should act fast, as the sleeves will only be around today.