FIFA has launched a new batch of affordable World Cup tickets following criticism over high prices. Football’s international governing body has guaranteed a selection of tickets at a fixed price of £45 for each match at next summer’s tournament.
These will be distributed to participating member associations, including the English Football Association, and sold to their members. This represents about 10 percent of the tickets allocated to each country, and while the number is relatively small, it represents a significant change in policy and a win for fans.
FIFA has consulted with key stakeholders, including the relevant FAs, and is now taking action in response to the backlash.
England supporters face prices starting at £200 for tickets to the group opener against Croatia and more than £4,000 for the World Cup final.
This is a significant increase compared to previous World Cups, with fans claiming they cannot afford to travel to the United States.
FIFA indicated that ticket prices for major U.S. sporting and pop events are higher and reflect market value.
However, fan groups and protests prompted a reassessment and FIFA sent a letter to all participating member associations informing them of the changes.
The letter reads: “With 20 million ticket requests in the current sales phase, FIFA has confirmed that fans of national teams that have qualified for the 2026 FIFA World CupTM will benefit from a dedicated ticket price tier designed to make it more affordable to watch their teams on football’s greatest stage.”
“The newly introduced supporter entry slots will be available for each of the 104 matches, including the final, at a fixed price of $60 per ticket.
“Entry tier tickets will be allocated specifically to supporters of eligible teams and the selection and distribution process will be managed independently by Participating Member Associations (PMAs).
“Each PMA will define its own eligibility criteria and application process. We are required to ensure that these tickets are specifically allocated to loyal fans with close ties to the national team.”
“In total, 50% of each PMA allocation will fall within the most affordable range of Supporter Value Tier (40%) and Supporter Entry Tier (10%).The remaining allocation will be split evenly between Supporter Standard Tier and Supporter Premier Tier.
“Furthermore, fans who applied through the PMA quota and whose team did not advance to the knockout phase will have their administrative fees waived when processing a refund if their application is unsuccessful.”
