FIFA accused of "monumental betrayal" over "extortionate" ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup

Владислав Вислоцкий Exclusive
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The announced ticket prices for the group stage matches, according to information from the German Football Association, range from $180 to $700 (€153-€595). Tickets for the final match cost between $4,185 (€3,561) and $8,680 (€7,387). These prices significantly exceed FIFA's promises of ticket availability at $60 (€51), while the tournament organizers in the USA seven years ago aimed to offer many seats for $21 (€17).

The organization Football Supporters Europe (FSE) described the current prices as "extortionate." In their statement, they noted: "This is a serious betrayal of the traditions of the World Cup, which ignores the contribution of fans to creating this spectacle." In September, FIFA announced that tickets on its website would cost from $60 (€51) for group stage matches to $6,730 (€5,727) for the final, although these prices may change due to the implementation of dynamic pricing for the tournament.

Tickets are offered in four categories, with the best seats in category 1. According to the price list published by the German federation, there are only three categories. The cheapest ticket for the first group stage match between Germany and Curaçao in Houston cost $180 (€153), while the minimum price for the semifinal was $920 (€783), and the maximum was $1,125 (€957).

The Football Association called on FIFA to immediately suspend ticket sales through national associations until a solution is found that respects the traditions, universality, and cultural significance of the World Cup.

Final Stage

On Thursday, FIFA launched the third phase of ticket sales, giving fans the opportunity to apply for specific matches for the first time through a "Random Selection Draw." Following the draw for the 2026 tournament, which will take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the match schedule has been updated.

Fans now know when and where Lionel Messi and his team will perform. Previously, tickets were distributed randomly, as the qualifying period had not yet ended. Now that the participating countries are grouped, their paths in the tournament are known.

However, there is no guarantee that fans will receive tickets for the matches they applied for. The draw began on December 11 and will last until January 13. FIFA claims that applications can be submitted at any time during this period, and the timing of submission will not affect the chances of success.

Fans can apply for up to four tickets for one match and a maximum of 40 tickets for the entire tournament. A FIFA ID will be required to apply, and fans will be able to select matches and price categories.

A total of four categories of tickets are allocated: the best seats are in category 1, while category 4 seats are located at the top of the stadiums. Successful candidates will be notified by email in February, and payment will be processed automatically.
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