World Cup organisers have announced the introduction of a cheaper $60 ticket category for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following widespread criticism over the high cost of attending the tournament to be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, FIFA said it has created a new “Supporter Entry Tier”, with tickets priced at $60 (about €51) and available for all 104 matches, including the final.
According to the world football governing body, the initiative is aimed at easing the burden on travelling supporters and ensuring greater access for fans following their national teams throughout the tournament.
“These tickets are designed to further support travelling fans following their national teams across the tournament,” FIFA said.
The $60 tickets will be reserved exclusively for fans of qualified teams and will account for 10 per cent of each national federation’s ticket allocation. FIFA added that national associations are expected to ensure the tickets are allocated to “loyal fans who are closely connected to their national teams.”
The move comes after strong criticism from fan advocacy group Football Supporters Europe (FSE), which last week described World Cup ticket prices as “extortionate” and “astronomical.” The group said that following a team from the group stage to the final could cost a supporter at least $6,900, far above what many fans can afford.
FSE also recalled that FIFA’s 2018 bid document promised ticket prices starting from $21, raising concerns over affordability and access.
In another concession, FIFA announced that fans who purchase tickets for knockout-stage matches but whose teams are eliminated earlier will have administrative fees waived when refunds are processed.
The football body said the decision was taken amid extraordinary global demand, revealing that over 20 million ticket requests have already been submitted.
FIFA added that the first draw for tickets across all price categories in the initial sales phase will take place on Tuesday, January 13.
