The US government has launched an investigation into FIFA regarding ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup. According to The Athletic, the probe focuses on ticket sales for eight matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, including the final.
According to the source, New York Attorney General Letitia James and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport have demanded detailed documents from FIFA concerning ticket prices, sales phases, seat categories, and information provided to fans. Official subpoenas have also been sent to the organization. The New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection is also involved in the investigation.
It is noted that FIFA has previously faced criticism for raising ticket prices despite public outcry. Furthermore, changes to stadium seating category maps during various sales phases have caused frustration among fans. Some buyers complained that the seats they believed they had purchased were later reclassified into different categories.
The situation became even more controversial in April after FIFA introduced a new ticket category for the front rows of the lower stands. Fans have stated that the ticket purchasing process is not transparent enough and that prices are being excessively inflated.
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport accused FIFA of "creating artificial scarcity and price gouging." She emphasized that there should be a fair and understandable system for selling tickets to major events like the World Cup.
"Fairness in selling World Cup tickets is not difficult. But FIFA has turned it into a real mess at the expense of ordinary fans," said Davenport.
New York Attorney General Letitia James also stressed that fans must know exactly what they are buying. She believes that anyone purchasing a ticket is entitled to accurate information regarding the seat and category they have chosen.
FIFA had previously stated that stadium maps serve only as general guidance and do not fully reflect the exact location of seats. The organization attempted to respond to criticism regarding map changes through this explanation.
According to reports, FIFA has the right to challenge the subpoenas sent by US officials in court. Therefore, the investigation may not conclude quickly, and officials might not receive full answers before the World Cup begins.
In short, an investigation into FIFA regarding 2026 World Cup ticket sales has begun in the US. The main grievances relate to price hikes, changes in seat categories, and a lack of clear information for fans. The World Cup has not yet started, but the "game" surrounding the tickets is already heating up.
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