New $60 “Supporter Entry Tier” Announced for Loyal Fans
FIFA is reducing World Cup ticket prices after facing intense global criticism. Consequently, the governing body has created a new “Supporter Entry Tier.”
This policy will offer $60 tickets for every match, including the final. Previously, the cheapest final ticket cost fans $4,185.
National federations will receive these specially priced tickets for games involving their teams. Subsequently, each federation will distribute the hundreds of available tickets to their most loyal traveling supporters.
FIFA designed this change specifically to aid fans following their teams across North America.
Reversal Follows Backlash Over Initial Ticketing Plan
This decision marks a significant reversal. Initially, FIFA’s plan provided no low-cost tickets to participating teams’ federations.
As a result, fans worldwide reacted with shock and anger upon the plan’s release.
Furthermore, the original pricing conflicted with host nation promises. Specifically, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico had pledged hundreds of thousands of $21 tickets during their bid eight years ago.
Instead, the cheapest group-stage tickets started between $120 and $265.
FIFA Also Waives Fees in Further Concession
In a further concession, FIFA will also waive administrative fees on post-tournament refunds. Previously, fans who bought ticket packages for their team’s potential run would not receive refunds until after the July 19 final. This policy, along with dynamic pricing and resale platform fees, drew major criticism from international soccer fans.
Context of the Expanded 2026 Tournament
The organization is making these changes for the 2026 World Cup. Importantly, this will be the first 48-team tournament, and FIFA expects to earn at least $10 billion in revenue.
Ultimately, the adjusted World Cup ticket prices demonstrate FIFA’s response to ensuring supporter access amidst its commercial expansion
