FIFA hikes prices for the 2026 World Cup: A seat at the 2026 World Cup final will cost $4000

The football world has found itself at the epicenter of a major scandal: FIFA has been hit with a barrage of criticism over "sky-high" ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The cost of match passes has increased several times compared to the previous tournament in Qatar, triggering a wave of outrage among fans and accusations of "privatizing football" for wealthy audiences.

According to BAKU.WS, referencing the British Telegraph, the difference in prices is colossal and indicates FIFA's new approach to commercializing the tournament. Here are the key indicators:

• Prices for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup: start from $370, with the most expensive tickets reaching $1825.

• For comparison, in Qatar (2022 World Cup): tickets were significantly cheaper - from $55 to $618.

• Final in New York: will cost even more. The cheapest available tickets start at $2030, and the average price for a seat at the final match will reach nearly $4000.

• "Affordable" tickets for $60: which FIFA actively advertises, are in fact practically unavailable for purchase.

The reason for such a sharp price increase is the "dynamic pricing system," where ticket prices rise as demand increases. Fans, especially from England, and representatives of fan associations have harshly criticized FIFA, accusing the organization of excessive commercialization of the tournament. "FIFA is creating a tournament for wealthy Western fans. This is not global football, but its privatization," said Ronan Even, director of Fans Supporters Europe, expressing the indignation of millions of fans worldwide.

In addition to high prices, FIFA has also introduced additional monetization mechanisms that raise questions:

• Official ticket resale: allowed with a markup, with FIFA taking a 15% commission on each transaction.

• "Right to Buy" platform: fans are first forced to buy "tokens" for $999 to gain the right to purchase tickets, primarily in the most expensive categories.

In response to criticism, FIFA defends itself, claiming that the new system "reflects US market practices" and should ensure "fair access to football." However, for millions of fans around the world, the World Cup in North America has already become the most expensive in history, calling into question claims about its accessibility and global nature.