FIFA is facing a furious global backlash after fan groups labeled the 2026 World Cup pricing structure a “monumental betrayal.” The controversy, spearheaded by Football Supporters Europe (FSE), has led to calls for an immediate halt to ticket sales, which are deemed “extortionate.” The outrage stems from leaked prices that show the cheapest seat for the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium will cost a staggering $4,185 (£3,120).
FSE pointed out that the minimum cost for the most dedicated fans to follow their team from the first match to the final will be at least $6,900 (€6,000). This figure is nearly five times the cost of the equivalent package offered during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Adding to the fury is the discovery that FIFA is employing dynamic pricing and has abandoned its original bid promise of making hundreds of thousands of tickets available for as low as $21.
The World Cup Ticket Betrayal is highlighted by the allocation strategy, where the lowest price category is not being made available to loyal supporters through national associations (PMA). FSE accused FIFA of ignoring the contribution of traveling fans to the tournament’s atmosphere. They demanded the governing body pause ticket sales immediately and open a consultation to review the price structure.
The crisis puts immense pressure on FIFA to reverse course and honor the World Cup’s tradition of accessibility. With the official ballot now open, the price dispute confirms that the cost of following a team in the 2026 tournament will likely shut out millions of ordinary fans, making this the most expensive World Cup in history. The World Cup Ticket Betrayal controversy shows no sign of cooling.
