FIFA’s decision to slash ticket prices to $60 for the 2026 World Cup has stunned fans worldwide, but the move follows a month‑long backlash over earlier high prices.
Ticket Price Overhaul
FIFA announced on Tuesday that $60 tickets will be available for every game at the North American tournament. The tickets are earmarked for national federations whose teams are playing, and each federation will decide how to allocate them to loyal supporters who have attended previous games at home and on the road. The number of $60 tickets per game is expected to be in the hundreds, rather than thousands, and FIFA has dubbed the new category the “Supporter Entry Tier.”
Fan Reaction
The announcement came after fans worldwide reacted with shock and anger when FIFA revealed its original ticketing plan. The cheapest prices for group‑stage matches that did not involve the co‑hosts—United States, Canada, and Mexico—had ranged from $120 to $265. Fans were outraged that participating teams would receive no tickets in the lowest‑priced category. The plan also included dynamic pricing and extra fees on a FIFA‑run resale platform, features common in U.S. entertainment but unfamiliar to soccer fans around the globe. Moreover, supporters who wanted to reserve a ticket for all of their team’s potential games through the final would not receive a refund until after the tournament.
FIFA’s Justification
FIFA did not specify exactly why it dramatically altered its strategy, but the governing body said the lower prices are “designed to further support travelling fans following their national teams across the tournament.” The statement came as part of a broader climb‑down that also included a waiver of administrative fees for refunds made after the July 19 final.
Impact on a 48‑Team Tournament
The 2026 World Cup in North America will be the first edition to feature 48 teams, up from the current 32. FIFA expects the expanded tournament to generate at least $10 billion in revenue. The ticket pricing controversy highlights the tension between maximizing revenue and ensuring fan access, especially for loyal supporters who have been promised affordable seats.
U.S. Readiness for Fan Travel
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy of NBC Universal said the United States is prepared for soccer fans to travel between host cities during the 2026 World Cup. The statement underscores the logistical support that will accompany the new pricing strategy.
Refund Policy Change
In a further concession, FIFA announced it would waive its administrative fees when refunds are made after the July 19 final. This change comes in response to fan complaints that refunds would otherwise be delayed until after the tournament’s conclusion.
Key Takeaways
- FIFA has introduced $60 tickets for every game in the 2026 World Cup, targeting loyal fans through national federations.
- Earlier ticket prices ranged from $120 to $265, sparking widespread fan backlash over lack of access to the lowest‑priced category.
- FIFA’s new pricing strategy is justified as a means to support travelling fans, and administrative fees for refunds will be waived after the final.
The 2026 World Cup’s expanded format, projected $10 billion in revenue, and the new ticket pricing plan mark a significant shift in how FIFA approaches fan access and revenue generation. The outcome of these changes will be closely watched as the tournament approaches.
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