2026 FIFA World Cup faces broadcast quality and ticketing disputes

Polish public broadcaster TVP will transmit the 2026 FIFA World Cup only in HD, despite having offered 4K coverage for earlier tournaments. TVP cites formal and financial constraints, while the media regulator KRRiT notes that the 4K channel was not included in TVP’s 2026 programme plan and that the broadcaster’s explanation may mislead viewers. As a result, Polish fans with 4K televisions will watch matches at a lower resolution.

FIFA reports a 99 % stadium occupancy rate for the tournament, but televised images reveal large empty sections, especially in premium hospitality areas. Ticket prices have been steep, with some VIP seats costing up to $5,000 and a reported 180,000 tickets still available on resale platforms before the event began. Prosecutors in New York and New Jersey have opened investigations into FIFA’s ticket‑sale practices, alleging artificial scarcity and overpricing. Independent data suggest that actual attendance for the first sixteen matches was well under 60 % of available seats.