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FIFA will re-examine its ticketing approach for the 2030 World Cup after supporters expressed anger over skyrocketing prices for this year’s tournament in Canada, Mexico and the United States, the governing body said on Thursday.
Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom addressed reporters after the FIFA Congress wrapped up in Vancouver.
Grafstrom said the high costs for the 2026 finals simply reflected “the reality of the market in North America.”
“I will always have understanding for fans and their opinions, but I think there are quite a wide array of ticket prices — some are cheap, some are more expensive,” Grafstrom said.
“But of course, you know, we listen, we take into the account the comments, and of course, as for every World Cup, we will review and see how we do it for the next one,” he added.
The price structure for the 2026 World Cup has generated intense criticism. Football Supporters Europe (FSE), a fan organisation, has branded the pricing “extortionate” and described it as a “monumental betrayal” of supporters.
FSE filed a lawsuit with the European Commission last month targeting FIFA over what it called “excessive ticket prices” for the tournament.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has maintained that ticket prices are simply a result of massive demand.
“In the US in particular there is this thing called dynamic pricing, meaning the prices will go up or down,” depending on the match, Infantino has said.
FIFA’s own ticket resale exchange showed four tickets for the July 19 final at MetLife Stadium listed for $2 million each this week, according to reports. Other resale platforms commonly show final tickets costing tens of thousands of dollars.
Asked whether anger over ticket prices could damage the World Cup’s legacy, Grafstrom said revenues from the tournament, estimated at up to $13 billion, would be channelled back into the sport.
“I think, you know, the legacy is also what we’ll be able to do with the money that it generates,” Grafstrom said.
“This is a true legacy through the (FIFA) Forward program and in order to really develop the game of football in our member associations, and this will have a true impact.”
