FIFA President Infantino defends World Cup ticket prices amid US probe and referee entry denial

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the pricing of tickets for the 2026 World Cup, which start at $140 and reach up to $8,680 for standard seats at the July 19 final in New Jersey. After criticism, FIFA released about 130,000 tickets priced at $60 for national‑team supporters, and Infantino said the tournament’s average ticket price is under $500, comparable to other major U.S. sports events.

He told reporters he is not worried about investigations launched by the attorneys general of California, New Jersey, New York and Texas, adding that FIFA checks its actions with top lawyers and welcomes any inquiry. Infantino also addressed the denial of entry to Somali referee Omar Artan, saying FIFA cannot dictate who governments admit and is working “behind the scenes” to find a solution. He called the situation “unfortunate” and urged fans to calm down.

The president praised FIFA’s role in ensuring Iran can participate despite broader U.S. tensions, and described the upcoming tournament as possibly “the biggest event in the history of mankind.”