A few years ago, as part of alignment with the European JAA requirements,
the UK introduced a requirement that is worded almost identically to 61.57,
which requires three t/os and landings in the last 90 days to carry
passengers.

Before this rule came into effect, UK pilots who hadn't flown for some
considerable time would often take along another non-instructor pilot, for
example, a co-owner, in the right seat. It made more sense to fly
accompanied by someone who was current than to fly solo. But the recent
introduction of a currency rule now prohibits the carrying of this
"passenger", forcing the pilot who wants to get back in 90-day currency to
fly solo (or find a CFI to accompany).

Is this also the way 61.57 is interpreted by the FAA?

Julian Scarfe