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| US President Donald Trump stands on stage after receiving the FIFA Peace Prize during the draw for the 2026 World Cup [Jacquelyn Martin/AP] |
US President Questions Sky-High Costs for World Cup 2026
President Donald Trump has criticized soaring ticket prices for the FIFA World Cup 2026, saying he personally would not pay $1,000 to attend a United States group-stage match.
Trump made the comments while reacting to reports about the massive costs fans are facing for games across the US, Canada, and Mexico.
Trump Says Working-Class Fans Are Being Shut Out
Speaking about the upcoming tournament, Trump said he wants ordinary Americans to be able to attend matches — especially supporters from places like Queens and Brooklyn.
“I wouldn’t pay it either,” Trump reportedly said after learning some tickets were selling for more than $1,000.
The president warned that rising prices could prevent working-class football fans from experiencing the World Cup in person.
FIFA Defends Expensive Ticket Prices
Gianni Infantino defended the pricing strategy, arguing that ticket costs are comparable to major sporting events in the United States.
FIFA claims a portion of group-stage tickets remain available for under $300, though many resale listings continue reaching extremely high prices online.
World Cup Final Tickets Reach $13,000
Reports suggest the average ticket price for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final in New Jersey has climbed to nearly $13,000 — a dramatic increase compared to previous tournaments.
Fans have also complained about:
- resale markups
- service fees
- limited availability
- fluctuating prices
Some group-stage matches are reportedly costing thousands of dollars for just two seats.
Fans React Online as FIFA Faces Backlash
Football fans across social media have heavily criticized FIFA over what many are calling “unaffordable” ticket prices.
The controversy has sparked debate over whether the World Cup is becoming too expensive for average supporters.
World Cup 2026 Set Across North America
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted across:
- United States
- Canada
- Mexico
The tournament will feature matches in 16 cities and is expected to become the biggest World Cup in football history.