FIFA subpoenaed by New York & New Jersey to explain 2026 World Cup ticket pricing

The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey have subpoenaed FIFA as part of an investigation into ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup. 

Fans may have been misled about seat locations, and FIFA’s practices could have contributed to soaring prices. 

Although the ticketing issues are relevant to all World Cup games, the current investigation focuses on the matches scheduled at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. 

The venue will host eight matches, including the final on July 19.  

New Jersey attorney general Jennifer Davenport slammed FIFA for turning the ticket purchasing process into a ‘gauntlet of confusion, fake scarcity and impossibly high prices’. 

She said a ‘thorough investigation’ into the matter would be conducted. 

New York attorney general Letitia James said: “No one should be manipulated into paying sky-high prices for seats, and fans should be able to trust that the tickets they purchase will be the ones they receive.”

FIFA has been criticised over exorbitant ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup, which is set to start on June 11. 

The global governing body has introduced dynamic pricing for the first time in the competition’s history, allowing ticket prices to fluctuate depending on demand. 

The new system has led to huge price surges for marquee matches. 

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended the cost by citing the public’s strong demand for the summer tournament. 

The backlash led FIFA to introduce a limited number of affordable $60 tickets in December. 

However, supporters’ groups claimed the move failed to make an impact, saying the cheap tickets were largely unavailable by the time general sales opened.