Prosecutors Probe FIFA Over Allegedly Sky-High 2026 World Cup Ticket Prices]

New York and New Jersey authorities have launched an investigation into FIFA’s ticket pricing for the 2026 World Cup, focusing on concerns over soaring costs and potential misrepresentation of seat locations.

The 2026 tournament—the first to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico—has drawn criticism for record-breaking ticket prices. Prosecutors described the costs as “sky-high,” particularly for high-demand matches including the final scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Officials Condemn Pricing Practices

New York Attorney General Letitia James and New Jersey Prosecutor Jennifer Maples stated that World Cup ticket prices “far exceeded” those of any prior tournament. “New Yorkers have been waiting years for the World Cup to come to their backyard, and they deserve a fair shot at affordable tickets,” James said. “No one should be manipulated into paying sky-high prices for seats, and fans should be able to trust that the tickets they purchase will be the ones they receive.”

Dynamic Pricing Under Scrutiny

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the pricing model as “dynamic pricing,” citing higher baseline costs in the U.S. and strong global demand. However, most tickets—except for the cheapest options available only in early group-stage matches—are significantly more expensive than typical U.S. sporting events.

The final is expected to cost ordinary fans thousands of dollars—up to five times more than the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar. By comparison, the 1994 final in the U.S. was roughly 20 times cheaper.

“It’s an honor to host the World Cup, but the event is not an invitation to exploit our residents and visitors,” Maples said.

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Broader Controversy Surrounds Tournament

The prosecutors’ investigation adds to mounting criticism of the tournament’s costs. Supporters’ groups have filed complaints with the EU over pricing, while issues with parking and transportation expenses have also drawn scrutiny.

FIFA has made limited attempts to address concerns, including releasing a small number of lower-cost tickets, but these efforts have had little impact.