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Infantino Defends Soaring 2026 World Cup Ticket Prices as Funding Necessity

He frames the monthlong event as the cash engine that keeps FIFA running between tournaments.

Overview

  • FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the pricing in New York, saying the World Cup is the organisation’s only revenue event and pays for 47 months of global work.
  • On StubHub, listings ranged from about $1,359 for the United States’ opener to $25,000 for lower-bowl seats at the final in the New York area.
  • FIFA added a $60 ticket option after complaints, but reporters found it covers only a small share of seats in each stadium.
  • Local coverage ties higher costs to U.S. market forces that include heavy demand, premium NFL venues with suites and clubs, dynamic pricing, and large corporate allocations.
  • Fans say the costs shut out regular supporters, with some Houston-area buyers recalling $125 seats at past World Cups and others planning to stay home rather than pay hundreds or thousands.