Fans File EU Complaint Against FIFA Over 2026 World Cup Ticket Pricing

Football supporters have lodged a formal complaint with the European Commission, accusing FIFA of imposing excessive ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup.

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The complaint was submitted by Football Supporters Europe (FSE) alongside consumer group Euroconsumers. They argue that FIFA has exploited its control over ticket sales to introduce unfair pricing practices.

Allegations of Abuse of Market Power

In a joint statement, the groups said FIFA effectively holds a monopoly on World Cup ticket distribution and has used that position to set conditions that would not exist in a competitive market.

Ticket prices initially ranged from around $140 for group-stage matches to as much as $8,680 for the final. Even lower-tier final tickets were priced above $4,000, with costs subject to fluctuation under a dynamic pricing system being used at the tournament for the first time.

Criticism of Dynamic Pricing

Supporters’ groups have strongly criticised the use of dynamic pricing, arguing that it turns access to matches into a bidding process that disadvantages ordinary fans.

Els Bruggeman said the system inflates costs without adding value and risks excluding large numbers of supporters.

FSE has called for ticket prices to be fixed during the next sales phase and for dynamic pricing to be halted for European buyers.

Partial Price Adjustments

Following a backlash when tickets first went on sale, FIFA introduced a limited number of lower-priced tickets, with some available for around $60 across all stages of the tournament. These were allocated to participating teams to distribute among loyal supporters.

However, fan groups argue that the move does not address broader concerns about affordability and transparency in the ticketing process.

Concerns Over Resale Market

Additional criticism has been directed at FIFA’s official resale platform, where tickets have reportedly been listed far above their original prices.

FSE said the governing body takes a commission of around 30% on resale transactions, further increasing costs for fans.

Ronan Evain said supporters were being left with little choice but to pay inflated prices or miss out on attending matches.

FIFA Response

FIFA said it had not formally received the complaint but defended its approach, stating that it operates as a not-for-profit organisation and reinvests World Cup revenues into the development of football globally.

Gianni Infantino has previously pointed to unprecedented demand for tickets, suggesting all matches at the expanded 2026 tournament are expected to sell out.

Growing Scrutiny

The complaint marks a significant escalation in tensions between football authorities and supporter groups, with the issue now set to be examined at the European level.

The 2026 World Cup, to be held across North America, will be the largest in the tournament’s history, increasing both demand and scrutiny over access for fans.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 25 March 2026

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