FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticket Prices Leave Many Fans Frustrated
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has sparked concerns over rising costs, with many supporters unable to afford tickets. Fans in New York reported prices exceeding $1,200 for major matches, while FIFA stated entry tickets start at $60 and average below $500.
Additional travel expenses, including a $98 round trip fare to MetLife Stadium, have further increased costs. For the opening phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, soaring ticket and travel costs have become a major talking point, with many supporters saying the tournament is drifting beyond the reach of ordinary fans. Karan, an Indian-origin resident of New Jersey, said he and his wife searched for tickets for three months but found most New York matches priced above $1,200 for two seats.
Brazilian fan Francisco chose not to attend Brazil's opener against Morocco because of the combined expense of tickets and transport, despite paying only $70 to watch a pre-tournament friendly in Harrison. Criticism has grown alongside reports of empty seats at some games. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani urged FIFA to keep the World Cup accessible and secured a limited allocation of discounted tickets for local residents. U.S. President Donald Trump also said he would not pay the prevailing prices. FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the pricing, stating that entry tickets start at $60 and that the average ticket price remains below $500.
Travel costs added to the controversy when New Jersey Transit introduced a special round-trip fare that was later revised to $98 after additional advertising support. The debate has spread beyond the U.S., with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also saying she skipped the opening match because tickets were too expensive.