Fifa ordered to explain World Cup ticket pricing The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey have launched an investigation into FIFA’s ticket pricing and transport costs for the 2026 World Cup, accusing the organization of “artificially inflating prices” and “misleading fans.” The probe follows allegations that FIFA’s ticket sales strategies created confusion, fake scarcity, and exorbitant costs for fans. New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport described the process as a “gauntlet of confusion, fake scarcity and impossibly high prices,” emphasizing that the investigation would scrutinize FIFA’s conduct and demand the organization provide internal documents through a subpoena. The investigation, announced jointly by New York Attorney General Letitia James, New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) commissioner Samuel AA Levine, and Davenport, focuses on claims that FIFA manipulated ticket pricing and seat allocations. Fans reported being misled about seat locations, including the creation of more expensive “front” category tickets released after initial sales. Additionally, variable pricing across different phases of ticket sales is alleged to have allowed FIFA to raise prices for about 90 of the 104 fixtures by an average of 34%. The inquiry will examine how ticket release schedules and public statements influenced pricing. FIFA has declined to comment on the allegations, despite repeated calls for transparency. The organization’s president, Gianni Infantino, previously defended the ticket costs by stating they reflect the “absolutely crazy” demand for the tournament. However, as of Wednesday, face-value tickets were available for 86 of the 104 matches, with all but 10 group-stage fixtures already scheduled.#fifa #metlife_stadium #new_york_attorney_general #new_jersey_attorney_general #new_jersey_governor
