Time to put game above greed?: FIFA accused of ignoring fans over 2026 World Cup ticket pricing

The world football governing body, FIFA, is facing huge criticism for the way it is handling tickets for the 2026 Men’s World Cup. The biggest football tournament is scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year, and it will also be the largest in terms of total teams participating. Ticket sales kicked off on Wednesday, September 10, and will be done in multiple phases.

However, FIFA’s ticket pricing strategy has upset fans around the world. FIFA is using a “dynamic pricing” system this time, which will allow ticket prices to change in real time based on demand. The cheapest tickets have been advertised at $60 (over Rs 5,200), but that price can rise to $200 (over Rs 17,600) or more. For the World Cup final, prices can go as high as $6,700 (over Rs 5,91,000).

On top of that, there is no limit on resale, which means people who buy early can sell tickets on an official FIFA platform at whatever price they want.

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Fans slam FIFA for pricing strategy

Fans believe this is a money grabbing tactic from FIFA. Zohran Mamdani, a politicial from New York, where one of the World Cup matches is slated to be held, has even started a petition, called “Game Over Greed.”

“It’s time we put the game above greed and host a World Cup all New Yorkers can afford to enjoy,” a message on Mamdani’s website read. His petition is demanding FIFA to end the dynamic pricing, place a cap on resale prices, and put aside 15 percent of tickets for local residents at a discount rate. Note, Mamdani is running for election this year.

Meanwhile, FIFA’s defense has been weakas their officials have claimed they are only following “market practice,” the same system used for concerts and big events. But football fans have argued the World Cup is not a pop concert or a luxury show. It is supposed to be the people’s tournament, where fans from all walks of life can come to the stands.

“The pricing model adopted generally reflects existing and developing market practice in our co-host nations for major entertainment and sporting events on a daily basis, football included. We are focused on ensuring fair access to our game for existing and prospective fans, and are offering group-stage tickets starting at $60, a very competitive price point for a major global sporting event in the U.S,” a FIFA spokesperson said.