FIFA is under pressure to suspend ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup after critics slammed the prices as exorbitant. The governing body revealed that the cheapest ticket for the final will cost over £3,000, sparking outrage among fan groups.
The prices for England's matches at the tournament, which will be held across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, were disclosed on Thursday. The cheapest final ticket for England Supporters' Travel Club members ranges from £3,120 to £6,471. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) labeled FIFA's pricing strategy as a "monumental betrayal" of fans, stating that attending every match from the group stage to the final could cost over £6,000.
FSE expressed astonishment at the high prices, arguing that they disregard the role of supporters in creating the World Cup's atmosphere. The group called on FIFA to halt ticket sales, engage with affected parties, and review prices to better reflect the tradition and cultural significance of the tournament.
The ticket pricing structure has also been criticized for varying based on unspecified criteria, rather than maintaining standard prices for group matches. England fans' group Free Lions supported FSE's statement, describing the prices as "shocking" and demanding protection for match-goers worldwide.
Meanwhile, the Scottish Football Association confirmed its ticket prices, with the cheapest options ranging from £134 to £372. A random selection draw for World Cup tickets opened on Thursday, allowing all fans to apply for tickets online until January 13. Successful applicants will be charged after the sale window closes.
The controversy surrounding ticket prices comes as FIFA continues to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, with the group stage scheduled to begin on June 11 and conclude on July 19. Despite the criticism, FIFA has not yet commented on the calls to pause ticket sales.
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