New York: FIFA is under fire from fan groups across Europe after ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup sparked widespread outrage. According to figures published by the Croatian football federation, the cheapest seats for the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will cost $4,185 (£3,120), more than five times the cost of comparable tickets for the 2022 final in Qatar.
Football Supporters Europe (FSE), an organisation representing supporters across the continent, described the pricing as ‘extortionate’ and a ‘monumental betrayal’ of loyal fans.
They warned that fans aiming to follow their national team from the group stage to the final could face a bill of at least $6,900 (£5,138) for match tickets alone, not including travel and accommodation across the three host countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
England supporters reacted sharply after receiving official price lists from the Football Association. The cheapest tickets for England’s opening group match against Croatia in Dallas are $265 (£195).
@FIFAcom‘s #WorldCup ticket prices are a betrayal to the most dedicated fans. At least $6900 to support your team from the first match to the final – nearly 5 times more than in Qatar.
FSE calls for the immediate halt to ticket sales.
🔗 Statement: https://t.co/AgEdqsfrox pic.twitter.com/2Yq5z5GIDZ
— Football Supporters Europe (@FansEurope) December 11, 2025
Matches against Ghana in Boston and Panama in New Jersey start at $220 (£165). Knockout-stage tickets climb steeply, from £175 for the last-32 to £220 for the last-16, £508 for the quarter-finals, and £687 for a semi-final seat.
For comparison, the ‘fans first’ tickets for Euro 2024 allowed England supporters to follow their team from the opening match to the final for just €375 (£328), highlighting the vast difference in pricing.
FSE has called on FIFA to halt the Participant Member Association (PMA) ticket sales and engage in consultations with all stakeholders. The group urged FIFA to review ticket prices and distribution to ensure the World Cup remains accessible and respects its global traditions.
The criticism raises questions about affordability and fan access as the 2026 World Cup approaches, with supporters warning that soaring ticket costs risk alienating the very audience that has long been at the heart of football’s most celebrated tournament.
