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State officials launch investigation into FIFA's ticket sales
New York and New Jersey attorneys general have opened a joint inquiry into allegations that FIFA artificially inflated 2026 World Cup ticket prices and misled fans about seating and availability. The governing body has been subpoenaed to provide internal documents.
Key allegations against FIFA
Officials accuse FIFA of creating a "gauntlet of confusion, fake scarcity and impossibly high prices," according to New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport. Specific concerns include:
- Ticket prices exceeding those of any previous World Cup;
- Introduction of pricier "front" category seats after initial sales;
- Variable pricing across sales phases, raising costs for 90 of 104 matches by an average of 34%.
Fans have also reported being misled about seat locations, with some discovering their tickets placed far from the advertised sections.
Officials demand transparency
New York Attorney General Letitia James emphasized that residents deserve "a fair shot at affordable tickets" and should not be "manipulated into paying sky-high prices."
"Being honest about ticket sales is not complicated. It's an honor to host the World Cup, but the event is not an invitation to exploit our residents and visitors."
Jennifer Davenport, New Jersey Attorney General
Samuel AA Levine, commissioner of New York City's Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), called reports of deceptive conduct "deeply troubling" and vowed to scrutinize FIFA's compliance with local consumer protection laws.
Ticket availability contradicts FIFA's claims
Despite FIFA President Gianni Infantino's assertions of "absolutely crazy" public demand, face-value tickets remain available for 86 of 104 matches, including nearly all group-stage games. Officials highlighted the cost of tickets for eight matches at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium, including the final.
Transport costs also under fire
Local organizers have clashed with FIFA over high transport prices. NJ Transit initially set a $150 (£111) fare for rail journeys from Manhattan to MetLife Stadium-a route normally priced at $12.90 (£9.50) for a round trip. After backlash, the fare was reduced to $98 (£73).
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill previously criticized FIFA's refusal to subsidize transport, insisting taxpayers would not cover the costs.
Broader scrutiny of FIFA practices
The investigation follows a letter from California Attorney General Rob Bonta earlier this month, raising concerns about "potentially misleading ticketing practices." FIFA has not commented on the ongoing probes.
