FIFA Faces Backlash Over 2026 World Cup Ticket Prices

FIFA recently announced that it had received an astonishing 5 million ticket requests within just the first 24 hours of the third phase of ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup. This impressive figure was met with significant criticism from fan organizations regarding the high pricing of tickets.

Record Demand Amidst Criticism

According to FIFA, interest from fans across more than 200 nations has reached “extraordinary levels,” especially following the recent draw that outlined matchups for the tournament to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This edition of the World Cup is notable as it will be the first to feature 48 teams, amplifying the global excitement surrounding the event.

Despite the overwhelming demand, FIFA has shown little inclination to reconsider the newly announced prices. Last week, the organization revealed ticket prices for various group stage games, which range from $180 to $700. More notably, tickets for the final match command steep prices, starting at $4,185 and reaching up to $8,680.

Fans Rally Against Ticket Costs

Supporters’ groups have voiced their discontent, arguing that the pricing reflects a betrayal of the World Cup’s essence. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) labeled the current pricing structure as “extortionate,” urging FIFA to pause ticket sales through national associations until a more ethical pricing strategy is developed. The organization emphasized that ignoring the financial constraints of fans undermines the cultural significance that the World Cup holds for its supporters.

The English Football Association (FA) shared ticket pricing details with the England Supporters Travel Club (ESTC), illustrating that purchasing tickets for all games leading up to the final would cost fans over $7,000. Such figures raise concerns among fans about affordability and accessibility.

A Shifting Pricing Landscape

Historically, World Cup ticket prices have fluctuated significantly. The U.S. hosted the tournament in 1994, offering tickets at prices ranging from $25 to $475. In contrast, the Qatar World Cup in 2022 featured tickets priced from approximately $70 to $1,600. For the first time, FIFA has introduced a dynamic pricing model, influenced by demand, making ticketing costs even less predictable.

The current pricing strategy diverges sharply from the initial proposal by U.S. soccer officials, who aimed to provide numerous $21 seats during the opening phase of sales. Now, buyers face soaring ticket costs amidst a wider conversation about the affordability of attending major sporting events.

The Ticket Sales Process

The ongoing third phase of ticket sales runs until January 13, 2026. Fans can enter a “random selection draw,” which allows them to indicate which matches and ticket categories they are interested in. However, entering the draw does not guarantee that fans will secure their desired tickets, leaving many hopefuls anxious about the upcoming notifications, which will be sent out via email in February.

Strong Demand Across the Globe

During the first 24 hours of ticket sales, FIFA identified the countries demonstrating the highest demand. Notably, the primary interest came from the three host nations, followed closely by other countries in the Americas, including Colombia, Brazil, and Argentina. Among the matches generating the most ticket requests, Colombia’s game against Portugal in Miami on June 27 stood out, alongside anticipated showdowns like Brazil vs. Morocco and Mexico vs. South Korea.

Despite the excitement around Scotland’s first World Cup appearance since 1998, local fan organizations have condemned the pricing as “disgraceful and disgusting.” The Association of Tartan Army Clubs (ATAC) expressed concern that these costs would exclude many passionate supporters from attending. They urged their football association to advocate for fans’ interests at the FIFA level.

Meanwhile, England’s football officials are expected to convey their fans’ feelings of discontent, although there are low expectations for any significant changes in response.

FIFA’s Justification

In response to the backlash surrounding ticket prices, FIFA asserted that as a not-for-profit organization, it channels revenue generated from the World Cup back into the development of football at all levels, including men’s, women’s, and youth programs across its 211 member associations.

This situation highlights the ongoing struggle between fan accessibility and the financial realities of hosting one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events.