FIFA backs high World Cup ticket prices despite empty seats at venues

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the ticket pricing for the 2026 World Cup, saying the average price was below $500 and comparable to major U.S. sports events. List prices start at $140 for group matches, with the final listed at up to $8,680 for regular seats and $73,200 for hospitality packages. He noted a $60 low‑price ticket category for national federations, though fan groups say those tickets were not truly accessible.

Despite official attendance figures, stadiums in Guadalajara and other venues showed many empty seats, prompting criticism that ticket costs and travel expenses are out of reach for ordinary fans. Fan organisations and the European Commission have lodged complaints, and U.S. state attorneys general have sent subpoenas concerning ticket‑sale practices. Infantino expressed confidence that any legal probes would not affect FIFA’s operations.