FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the soaring cost of World Cup tickets, saying the pricing reflects global demand and the realities of the entertainment market—especially in the United States.
Speaking at a global conference in Beverly Hills, Infantino responded to growing criticism from fan groups, including Football Supporters Europe, which recently described the ticket pricing as “extortionate” and filed a complaint with the European Commission.
The controversy intensified after tickets listed on FIFA’s official resale platform were advertised for staggering amounts, with some seats for the 2026 final in New York reportedly going for over $2 million. Infantino, however, clarified that such prices are set by resellers, not FIFA itself.
“If someone lists a ticket for $2 million, it doesn’t mean that’s the official price, and it doesn’t mean anyone will buy it,” he said, adding jokingly that he would personally serve refreshments to anyone who does.
Infantino argued that FIFA must operate within the legal and economic framework of the host country. In the U.S., where ticket reselling is permitted, he said setting prices too low would only encourage resellers to inflate costs even further.
Read Also:
Awoniyi Shines as Forest Stun Chelsea 3–1 to Deepen Blues’ Champions League Woes
He also pointed to the massive demand for the 2026 tournament, revealing that FIFA has received over 500 million ticket requests—far surpassing interest in previous editions.
While critics have compared current prices to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where final tickets were significantly cheaper, Infantino maintained that the increase is justified given the scale and commercial environment of the upcoming tournament.
He added that not all tickets are out of reach, noting that about 25% of group-stage tickets are priced below $300—though still high by global standards.
Despite the defence, concerns remain among fans who fear that the World Cup is becoming less accessible, with many arguing that the rising costs could push ordinary supporters out of the stadium experience.
