Fans from several countries sued FIFA on March 20. They accused the organization of setting extortionate ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The class-action lawsuit claims FIFA broke promises made during the bid process seven years earlier.
John Ramirez, a lead plaintiff from Los Angeles and a longtime United States supporter, filed the suit in federal court in New York. He stated that group-stage tickets now cost between 180 dollars and 700 dollars. Ramirez added that these prices made it impossible for ordinary fans to attend matches.
Moreover, supporters from Europe joined the case. They highlighted final tickets that ranged from 4185 dollars to 8680 dollars. Football Supporters Europe described the pricing as a monumental betrayal of the World Cup tradition.
Additionally, the lawsuit noted that FIFA had promised hundreds of thousands of seats at 21 dollars during the 2018 bid. Instead, prices rose sharply after dynamic pricing took effect in December 2025. Fans said the changes turned the tournament into an event for wealthy spectators only.
FIFA defended its approach at first. Officials argued that prices reflected market demand and stadium costs. However, the body later reduced some tickets to 60 dollars for loyal fans after global backlash in December 2025. Gianni Infantino, FIFA president, called the adjustments a sign of commitment to supporters.
Lawyers for the fans seek refunds and a court order for lower prices across all categories. The suit also demands FIFA consult fan groups before future sales.
The case continues in court. Supporters worldwide watch closely as the legal battle tests access to the sport’s biggest event.
