A European supporters’ group has taken legal action against FIFA over what it describes as “exorbitant” ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup.
The Football Supporters Europe (FSE), alongside Euroconsumers, filed a complaint with the European Commission, accusing FIFA of exploiting its monopoly over ticket sales and imposing unfair pricing conditions on fans.
In a statement, the groups alleged that FIFA’s control of ticket distribution has led to inflated prices and a lack of transparency in the purchasing process.
They pointed out that the cheapest tickets for the final of the 2026 tournament set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico start at $4,185, far higher than prices recorded at previous editions.
By comparison, they noted that the lowest-priced ticket for the 2022 final in Qatar was significantly cheaper, while tickets for the UEFA Euro 2024 final started at around €95.
Concerns over pricing system
The supporters’ groups also criticised FIFA’s use of “dynamic pricing,” a system where ticket costs fluctuate based on demand.
According to them, the model lacks a clear price cap, allowing costs to rise sharply without warning. In some cases, ticket prices reportedly increased by as much as 25 percent between sales phases.
They further argued that fans were often unable to determine the final ticket price before entering purchase queues, creating uncertainty and frustration.
Skyrocketing resale market
The controversy has been heightened by soaring resale prices. On FIFA’s official resale platform, some tickets for the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey have reportedly been listed at staggering amounts.
One category three ticket was advertised for over $140,000 more than 40 times its original price.
The groups say such practices highlight the lack of regulation in resale markets, particularly in the United States and Canada, where sellers can freely set prices.
FIFA defends pricing
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the pricing structure, attributing high costs to overwhelming global demand for tickets.
He explained that dynamic pricing reflects market realities, especially in countries like the United States where such models are common.
FIFA also noted that nearly seven million tickets are available for the expanded tournament, which will feature 48 teams and 104 matches for the first time.
While a limited number of lower-priced tickets starting at $60 have been introduced, critics argue that these are scarce and largely inaccessible to the general public.
Growing backlash
The lawsuit adds to mounting criticism of FIFA’s ticketing policies, with fans and advocacy groups warning that rising costs could shut out ordinary supporters from attending the world’s biggest football event.
The case is now before the European Commission, where the outcome could have wider implications for how major sporting events price and distribute tickets in the future.