Fans Decry ‘Inconceivable’ and ‘Extortionate’ 2026 World Cup Ticket Prices
The third phase of ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup commenced on Thursday, and fan reactions have been overwhelmingly negative. Many view the prices as ‘inconceivable’ and ‘extortionate.’ Erik Vales, a World Cup enthusiast from Fort Worth, expressed shock at the steep costs. He has previously attended World Cups in Brazil, Russia, and Qatar.
2026 World Cup Host Locations and Matches
The tournament, set to take place in the summer of 2026, will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. AT&T Stadium in Arlington is scheduled to hold the most matches, including nine games and a semifinal.
Ticket Pricing Categories
FIFA has implemented dynamic pricing for this World Cup, meaning that ticket prices will vary based on demand. Ticket categories include:
- Category 1: Lower bowl seating
- Category 2: Middle tier
- Category 3: Upper level
Skyrocketing Prices for Key Matches
Recent price announcements for high-demand matchups have raised eyebrows. For example:
- Argentina vs. Austria (June 22): $700 (Category 1), $500 (Category 2), $265 (Category 3)
- United States vs. Paraguay (June 12): $2,735 (Category 1)
- Mexico vs. South Africa (June 11): $2,355 (Category 1)
Vales recalled paying only $175 for a Category 1 ticket during the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. In contrast, today’s prices feel significantly inflated.
Resale Market Concerns
On the secondary market, ticket prices have surged to outrageous figures. For instance, tickets for the Argentina vs. Austria match have been listed at:
- $1,697 (Category 1)
- $1,606 (Category 2)
- $1,124 (Category 3)
Some lower-bowl seats are even listed for as high as $10,588.
Fan Organizations Voice Discontent
Football Supporters Europe (FSE) has joined the chorus of criticism, denouncing the pricing as ‘extortionate.’ The organization emphasized that such prices betray the World Cup’s tradition and overlook fans’ contributions to the event.
Availability of Tickets and Future Sales
FIFA will keep the current prices fixed until January 13, allowing fans to apply for lottery tickets. Following the lottery, successful applicants will be charged the listed prices, while those who are not chosen will receive rejection notices. In total, FIFA had sold nearly 2 million tickets prior to this latest phase.
As anticipation builds for the 2026 World Cup, fans like Vales are left wondering if they can afford to attend the event in their home country. They hope for fair pricing and accessible options, instead of exorbitant costs that limit attendance opportunities.
