FIFA is facing scrutiny for claims that it has “artificially inflated prices” and “misled fans” regarding ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup.
On Tuesday, New York and New Jersey’s attorneys general announced they are leading an investigation into FIFA’s ticketing practices, as eight World Cup matches, including the final, will take place in these states.
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport described the situation as “challenging due to confusion, false scarcity, and extraordinarily high prices,” especially regarding the match at MetLife Stadium, where the final is set to occur.
Davenport mentioned that he will be issuing subpoenas to FIFA for relevant information and emphasized that there will be a “comprehensive investigation into FIFA’s actions.”
“New Yorkers have been waiting for years for the World Cup to come to their area. They deserve a fair opportunity with reasonably priced tickets,” stated New York Attorney General Letitia James.
“No one should feel pressured into paying excessive prices for a seat; fans should have confidence that they’ll receive the tickets they buy.”
“Honesty in ticket sales should be simple, yet FIFA has turned the World Cup ticket purchasing process into a struggle filled with confusion, artificial scarcity, and ridiculously high prices, all to the detriment of consumers and hardworking people in New Jersey,” Davenport added in her remarks.
“We are dedicated to thoroughly investigating FIFA’s actions and are pleased to collaborate with Attorney General James to safeguard consumers. While we are excited to host the World Cup, this occasion is not a chance to take advantage of our residents or visitors.”
FIFA has been asked to clarify why ticket prices “exceeded those of previous World Cup tournaments,” which is just one of the many controversies arising around the event.
The first match at the roughly 82,000-seat MetLife Stadium—renamed New York-New Jersey Stadium for the tournament—will take place on June 13, featuring Brazil against Morocco.
Some tickets will be allocated for the World Cup final on July 19, potentially exceeding $33,000.
The FIFA World Cup is set to start on June 11, with the United States playing Paraguay in the opening match on June 12.
