Complaint filed over World Cup ticket prices
Why it matters: This complaint challenges FIFA's ticketing practices, potentially impacting future fan access and pricing at major tournaments.
- Football Supporters Europe (FSE) and Euroconsumers have formally complained to the European Commission, accusing FIFA of abusing its monopoly to impose excessive ticket prices and unfair purchasing conditions for the 2026 World Cup.
- FSE Director Ronan Evain stated that the complaint was a last resort due to FIFA's "failure to engage in meaningful consultation" regarding ticket pricing.
- FIFA previously introduced a small number of 'more affordable' $60 tickets for all 104 matches after widespread criticism, though FSE alleges these were "so scarce" they constituted "bait advertising."
- FSE is demanding FIFA abandon dynamic pricing, freeze April ticket release prices, and provide at least 48-hour notice of ticket availability and seat locations.
- The cost for one person to attend eight World Cup matches in 2026 is projected to be significantly higher than in 2022, ranging from approximately £5,225 to £12,350, compared to £1,466 to £3,914 for seven games in the previous tournament.
Football Supporters Europe (FSE) and Euroconsumers have filed a formal complaint against FIFA with the European Commission, alleging "excessive ticket prices" and an abuse of its monopoly position for the upcoming World Cup. They accuse FIFA of "bait advertising" with scarce cheaper tickets and demand an end to dynamic pricing and greater transparency for fans, a call that comes after FIFA's previous introduction of a limited number of 'more affordable' tickets following widespread criticism.
