FIFA Sees Record Demand for 2026 World Cup Tickets Amid Pricing Controversy

Explosive Global Demand

FIFA has recorded 150 million ticket requests for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This unprecedented demand has both validated the tournament's global appeal and raised questions about ticket pricing. FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the controversy by defending the pricing strategy, stating that the high demand justifies the ticket prices.

Pricing Controversy and New Ticket Categories

The initial ticket pricing faced criticism from international fan groups who compared it unfavorably to the 2022 Qatar World Cup. In response, FIFA introduced a new US$60 ticket category aimed at improving affordability for fans of teams that have qualified for the tournament. This move was seen as an effort to balance revenue generation with fan accessibility.

Financial and Developmental Impact

The massive demand and resulting revenue are expected to have a significant positive impact on football development globally. Infantino emphasized that the revenue generated will contribute substantially to the sport's growth and development initiatives worldwide. The 2026 World Cup is anticipated to be a financial success, building on its already record-breaking demand.