Chief legal officers in the United States are launching an investigation into FIFA regarding its ticketing practices for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
The Attorneys General of New York and New Jersey are demanding that FIFA address claims of “artificially inflated prices” and “misleading fans” regarding the sale of match tickets. FIFA has been subpoenaed to provide relevant information.
Reports indicate that fans may have been deceived about the actual locations of their seats, while FIFA’s public communication and ticket pricing strategies may have contributed to increased costs.
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and her New York counterpart, Letitia James, are specifically seeking information on ticketing practices for eight World Cup matches in New Jersey, including England’s group game against Panama on June 27 and the World Cup final on July 19.
Davenport stated, “Transparency in ticket sales shouldn’t be complicated. However, FIFA has turned the process of buying a World Cup ticket into a confusing ordeal filled with perceived scarcity and excessive prices—detrimental to consumers, especially hardworking residents of New Jersey.”
She continued, “We are dedicated to fully investigating FIFA’s actions and are proud to collaborate with Attorney General James in safeguarding our consumers. Hosting the World Cup should not be an opportunity for exploitation of our communities and visitors.”
Supporters have expressed that they were “misled” about seat locations, particularly with the introduction of pricier ‘front’ category tickets released after initial sales. Allegations also suggest that through various pricing phases influenced by demand, FIFA raised prices for roughly 90 out of the 104 fixtures by an average of 34 percent.
This investigation will scrutinize how the ticket release schedule and public statements may have influenced these price increases.
James commented, “New Yorkers have been anticipating the World Cup’s arrival in their area for years, and they deserve a fair chance at reasonable ticket prices. No one should be forced to pay exorbitant rates for seats, and fans must be able to trust that the tickets they buy are the tickets they will receive.”
She thanked Attorney General Davenport for collaborating on this effort to hold FIFA accountable and protect consumers in their states.
Residents of New Jersey who have not yet received the World Cup tickets for which they paid are urged to file complaints through the Division of Consumer Affairs website.
FIFA has chosen not to comment when approached by the Press Association.