In response to fan outrage over high prices, FIFA has introduced a $60 'supporter entry tier' for all 104 matches of the 2026 World Cup, including the final. Representing 10% of each national team's allocation, these tickets target loyal fans amid 20 million requests.
FIFA addresses ticket pricing criticism with new affordable tier
FIFA announced on Tuesday a limited $60 (£45) 'supporter entry tier' for every 2026 World Cup match, directly responding to backlash from groups like Football Supporters Europe (FSE), who last week decried initial prices—starting at $140 for group games and over $3,000 for the final—as a 'monumental betrayal'.
The new tier comprises 10% of tickets allocated to each participating member association (PMA), which must distribute them to 'loyal fans closely connected to their national teams'. Combined with a 40% 'supporter value tier', affordable categories now make up 50% of PMA allocations; the rest are standard and premium.
FIFA cited 'extraordinary global demand' with 20 million requests in the current phase. An official stated: 'We have listened to feedback and this new category is the right thing to do.' FSE welcomed the move as an 'appeasement tactic' but noted it aids only a few hundred fans per match.
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer urged FIFA to further improve affordability. The 2026 tournament across the US, Canada, and Mexico with 48 teams is projected to generate $10 billion, but accessibility concerns remain, including for disabled fans, with prices still far above Qatar 2022 levels and 2018 bid promises of $21 group tickets.