FIFA has announced the introduction of a new, lower-priced ticket category for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The move aims to make the tournament more accessible to fans and encourage greater attendance.
According to a FIFA statement, the “Fan Access” tickets will be priced at $60 each and will be available for all 104 matches of the tournament, including the final. This initiative seeks to ease the financial burden on supporters wishing to cheer on their national teams.
However, the statement also clarified that these discounted tickets will constitute only 10% of each national association’s ticket allocation and will be specifically reserved for fans of the qualified teams.
Despite this initiative, the Football Supporters Europe (FSE) has expressed continued dissatisfaction with overall ticket prices. The FSE argues that the adjustments are insufficient, stating in a release that FIFA’s announcement appears to be an attempt to quell global criticism. They also point out that the ticket sales policy remains largely unresolved and was formulated hastily without adequate consultation with member associations.
The FSE emphasizes that the number of affordable tickets is too limited, meaning the vast majority of fans will still face high prices, significantly exceeding the costs of previous World Cup editions. They estimate that following a team from the first match to the final could cost a fan at least $6,900, roughly five times the cost of attending the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
FIFA, in its announcement, stressed that national associations must ensure the $60 tickets are allocated to loyal fans who actively support their national teams. The governing body hopes this measure will contribute to a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere at the 2026 World Cup.
