Restrictions implemented on World Cup ticket sales commence
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the USA, Mexico, and Canada next summer, will introduce a dynamic pricing system for its ticketing, causing debate about fairness and accessibility.
Starting from September 10th, fans can apply for the first regular tickets for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. However, the process requires a Visa card due to an exclusive rights agreement with a FIFA sponsor. The price of these tickets, which will be determined through a phased sales process, is yet to be set by FIFA.
The suggestion of dynamic pricing has stirred controversy as it may disadvantage fans by escalating costs during high demand and possibly making tickets less accessible for traditional soccer enthusiasts. The system mirrors U.S. sports and entertainment sales but is viewed critically by some fans who fear higher and less predictable prices.
In previous World Cups, ticket prices were more static and transparent. However, this potential shift to dynamic pricing marks a significant departure from the norm. The exact details of the controversial ticket pricing method have not been specified in the provided article.
The World Cup will feature 48 nations, an increase from the standard 32, and will be the first tournament to do so. The opening match is scheduled for June 11th in Mexico City, while the final will take place on July 19th in East Rutherford, near New York.
Previously, packages such as combo tickets for the Club World Cup and World Cup, as well as VIP packages, have been made available. The starting price for VIP packages is $1,350 per person, approximately €1,200.
The use of dynamic pricing is not exclusive to the World Cup. For instance, during the Oasis band's comeback tour, ticket prices had reportedly increased by up to double using this method.
In summary:
- Ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin on September 10, 2025.
- Registration requires the creation of a FIFA ID and verification of a Visa card.
- The pricing method may involve dynamic pricing, with prices varying based on demand.
- The use of dynamic pricing has sparked controversy due to concerns about price volatility and affordability.
- The exact ticket prices will not be publicly known until the sales begin in September 2025.
[1] Times article on dynamic pricing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup [2] FIFA announcement on ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup [3] FIFA announcement on ticket sales process for the 2026 FIFA World Cup [4] Times article on the lack of details regarding the dynamic pricing method for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Concerned soccer fans have criticized the inclusion of dynamic pricing for tickets during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, fearing that excessively high prices might make tickets less accessible for traditional football enthusiasts.
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in North America, is poised to be the first tournament with 48 participating nations, and the anticipated ticket prices could have a significant impact on the affordability and accessibility of sports events for the public.
