Gianni Infantino defends 2026 World Cup ticket prices amid criticism over rising costs for fans

TOI GLOBAL DESK | TOI GLOBAL | May 01, 2026, 05:24 IST

Image credit : AP

Gianni Infantinodefended ticket pricing for the2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that while some seats are expensive, more affordable options are still available. The tournament, hosted acrossUnited States,Mexico, andCanada, has faced criticism over high costs, including semifinal tickets in Atlanta reaching $9,660. FIFA’s use of dynamic pricing and premium categories has drawn backlash from groups likeFootball Supporters Europe, which called the prices excessive. Despite concerns, Infantino said demand remains strong, with about 90% of tickets already sold. FIFA has also introduced a limited number of lower-cost tickets starting at $60 to maintain accessibility. Infantino emphasized that all revenue generated from the tournament will be reinvested into global football development, supporting programs and infrastructure across different countries worldwide.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks during the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, British Columbia, Thursday, April 30, 2026. (Ethan Cairns/The Canadian Press via AP)

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying that while many tickets are expensive, there are still cheaper options for fans. The tournament will be held across United States, Mexico and Canada, and pricing has become a major talking point.

Many of the available tickets, especially in the later stages, are very costly. For one semifinal in Atlanta, the only tickets listed were priced at $9,660. FIFA also introduced a new front row ticket category and a dynamic pricing system where prices change based on demand, which has led to strong reactions from fans.

Supporter group Football Supporters Europe criticized the pricing, calling it “extortionate” and saying that following a team throughout the tournament could cost nearly five times more than during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Despite the backlash, Infantino said ticket sales have been strong. “We sold 100% of the inventory that we put on the market, which is more or less 90% of the global inventory so far,” he said while speaking at a FIFA Congress event in Vancouver.

FIFA has also offered some cheaper tickets, with a limited number priced at $60 for all 104 matches. Infantino also explained the purpose of the revenue. “What is important is that all the revenue that we generate from the World Cup goes back to you, goes back to the entire world and finances football in all of your countries,” he said.

Gianni Infantino defends 2026 World Cup ticket prices amid criticism over rising costs for fans

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