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FIFA president addresses soaring World Cup ticket costs
Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, has dismissed criticism over the high prices of tickets for this summer's World Cup, set to take place from 11 June to 19 July across North America. Amid reports of resale listings reaching millions, Infantino quipped he would personally deliver refreshments to anyone purchasing a final ticket for $2 million.
Resale market drives prices to record highs
Tickets for the tournament's final in New Jersey have appeared on FIFA's official resale platform for nearly $2.3 million each. Infantino clarified that such listings do not reflect FIFA's set prices but rather the dynamics of the secondary market. "If some people list tickets for $2 million, it doesn't mean they'll sell-or that the tickets were ever priced that high," he said during the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills.
FIFA argues prices align with U.S. sporting events
Infantino defended the tournament's pricing, comparing it to other major U.S. sports events. He noted that 25% of group-stage tickets are available for under $300, likening the cost to attending a college game. "This is the World Cup," he added, framing the expense as justified given the event's global significance.
He also pointed to the U.S. resale market's influence, where tickets sold below face value are often resold at inflated prices. "Even critics who call our prices high see them double on the resale market," Infantino said.
Canada's resale crackdown affects Toronto matches
FIFA recently adjusted its resale platform to comply with Ontario's Putting Fans First Act, which bans ticket resales above face value. As a result, tickets for the six matches at Toronto's BMO Field can now only be resold at their original price. Listings for other venues, however, remain unrestricted.
Last week, FIFA removed Toronto tickets from its marketplace after the province enacted the law. The change applies retroactively, meaning even previously purchased tickets must now be resold at face value.
Fans face steep costs beyond tickets
Beyond ticket prices, attendees are grappling with surging hotel rates and transportation fees. A BBC Sport analysis found that an England supporter would need to spend approximately £6,500 to attend their team's group-stage matches, factoring in travel and lodging.
"We're ensuring accessibility while acknowledging the realities of hosting a global tournament in a market like the U.S.," Infantino said.
