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World Cup Ticket Prices Soar Beyond Fan Reach

ESPN Soccer •
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World Cup 2026 ticket prices have shocked fans who expected more affordable access to the tournament split between the US, Mexico, and Canada. FIFA's resale marketplace has seen prices soar to four to six figures, with some tickets listed for over $2 million. Lawmakers in the US have questioned the pricing strategy, with New York and New Jersey attorneys general issuing subpoenas.

The original bid promised ticket prices between $21 to $323 for group games, but reality differs dramatically. Paul Marshall, a California fan attending 11 games, is spending over $10,000 without even seeing the final. Average cheapest group-stage tickets in cities like Los Angeles and Dallas exceed $1,000, roughly double what the average American spends on food monthly.

US officials including President Trump and World Cup Task Force director Andrew Giuliani have criticized the high prices. FIFA claims 50% of tickets fall within the most affordable range, though actual numbers appear limited. Prices have recently dropped 37% on the resale market, suggesting FIFA's dynamic pricing strategy may be adjusting to fan backlash.