FIFA Chief Infantino Defends World Cup Ticket Price Hikes

FIFA President Defends World Cup Ticket Prices Amid Criticism

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended the high prices of World Cup tickets in the US, citing laws that allow for ticket resale at a premium. Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills on Tuesday, Infantino stated that the eye-watering prices reflect demand for the tournament.

The FIFA leader acknowledged criticism from fan groups, including Football Supporters Europe (FSE), which has filed a lawsuit with the European Commission over “excessive ticket prices” for the 2026 World Cup. FSE claims the pricing structure is “extortionate” and a “monumental betrayal”.

Infantino explained that the resale market in the US allows tickets to be sold at significantly higher prices than their face value. He stated that if some people are willing to pay $2 million for a ticket, it does not necessarily mean the ticket costs that amount.

FIFA has received over 500 million ticket requests for the 2026 World Cup, compared to fewer than 50 million combined for the previous two tournaments. Infantino noted that 25% of tickets for the group phase were priced under $300, citing comparable prices for college games and top professional sports events.

Despite struggling to sell out some games, including host nation USA’s opener against Paraguay, seats remain available at exorbitant prices. Tickets for the June 12 match in Los Angeles start at $1,120 and go as high as $4,105, with hospitality package groupings reaching up to $6,050 per seat.

FIFA has maintained that the steep increase in face-value prices is justified by market rates. Infantino stated that the organization must apply market rates, given the developed entertainment market in the US.

Source: Al Jazeera