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Soccer
The great World Cup rip-off: How record-high football prices expose Fifa’s biggest issue
TL;DR
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the most expensive ever, with fan costs estimated between $10,000 and $35,000. This raises significant concerns about FIFA's role and its impact on football fans.
Key points
- FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the most expensive ever
- Fan costs estimated between $10,000 and $35,000
- Concerns raised about FIFA's commitment to football fans
- High prices linked to deals with host cities
- Ticket prices reflect broader issues in football governance
Mentioned in this story
FIFAGianni Infantino
FIFA World Cup 2026
The FIFA World Cup 2026 logo is revealed during the kickoff event in Times Square in New York City (REUTERS/Brendan McDermid/File Photo) (Reuters)
Gianni Infantino has already been hailing 2026 as the best World Cup ever. Unsurprising; Fifa always do this, regardless of the reality, but there’s one element beyond doubt. It’ll be the most expensive. By far. Estimated costs for fans following their team through to the final range from $10,000 to $35,000. That’s including tickets, trains, the lot.
For the fifth episode of Copa Independent, we’re diving into how it got to this. How were these decisions made? What are the justifications, and what does it all mean for football, both now and the future? The potential consequences are vast, because while this is, on one level, a simple rip-off story, it’s also much more. The shocking ticket prices have been the signature story that sums up, but also raises further questions for the role of Fifa.
The global governing body is – theoretically – the ultimate guardian of the game, but how much concern have they shown for the wider football support base, and the fans that keep it going? While elements train tickets might not have their prices set directly by Fifa, they’re a consequence of lopsided deals Fifa has struck with the host cities.
Q&A
What are the estimated costs for fans attending the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Fans can expect to spend between $10,000 and $35,000 to follow their teams through the tournament.
How has FIFA justified the high ticket prices for the World Cup?
FIFA has not provided clear justifications for the high prices, which have raised concerns about their commitment to football fans.
What impact do FIFA's pricing decisions have on football fans?
The pricing decisions may alienate a significant portion of the fan base, raising questions about FIFA's role as the guardian of the game.