FIFA slammed over 2026 World Cup ticket prices, Tom Bartels calls it a scandal

ARD reporter Tom Bartels has sharply criticised FIFA’s pricing policy for the 2026 World Cup, describing the ticket costs as a "scandal" and "a terrible development". He urges German national team players to speak openly about how they view the prices, saying their voices are crucial. Bartels notes that FIFA aims to generate about $2.6 billion in revenue from spectator tickets alone, and that many tickets are priced far beyond the reach of average fans, potentially turning the tournament into a "VIP event" with tickets up to €1,000. He also disputes FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s claim that World Cup ticket prices are comparable to those of major U.S. sports. The criticism echoes concerns raised after the 2014 Brazil tournament, where affordable ticket categories were also limited.

Bartels’ comments come ahead of Germany’s opening match against Curaçao, highlighting growing pressure on the sport’s governing body to ensure broader accessibility for ordinary football supporters.