The World Cup ticket tiff
Alex ConnorThree host countries. 48 nations. 104 matches. 28 days to go. We’re just under one month out from the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. It’s about to get Messi.
I’m Alex Connor, your Extra Time host. Let’s talk about those ticket prices.
First, did you read this?
- Argentina’s Lionel Messi believes his team is entering the World Cup as one of the favorites, but strong showings from other teams has Messi warning that a repeat will not come easily.
- Mexico has issued an ultimatum to Liga MX-based players named to its pre-World Cup training camp: Show up or forget about going to the World Cup.
- Jameis Winston, the 2013 Heisman Trophy winner and top pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, is joining Fox Sports as a World Cup correspondent.
💸 Are expensive World Cup tickets the American way?
If you ask FIFA president Gianni Infantino, well, yes.
“You cannot go to watch in the U.S. a college game, not even speaking about a top professional game of a certain level, for less than $300,” Infantino said. “And this is the World Cup.”
The governing body has been facing increased criticism, and even a lawsuit, for the price of tickets from fans worldwide. The fan group, Football Supporters Europe, claims that following a team from the tournament's start to finish will cost nearly five times as much as the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Even President Donald Trump said he “wouldn’t pay” the $1,000 get-in price for the USA opener against Paraguay in Los Angeles.
All said, I have some encouraging news for you. Ticket prices appear to be falling, if even a little. (Our USA TODAY Shopping team did a deep dive of all 72 group stage matches and found 14 matches with tickets under $300).
But maybe don’t look at the price for the final just yet: Four tickets on FIFA’s resale platform were recently priced at $2.3 million.
Infantino said that doesn't mean they'll sell at that price — but, if they do, the FIFA boss said he'd personally bring the buyer a hot dog and a Coke.
This is where you can buy tickets for every team.
👀 See more (seriously)
- We compiled 20 players who will get you out of your seat, in photos.
- Watch: Did FIFA ban tailgating at 2026 World Cup matches? No, but getting to these venues will not be easy.
- What stadiums are hosting the 2026 World Cup in North America? Take a look at all 16.
I’ll be in your inbox daily starting June 11. Until then, keep up with all the latest World Cup news here.
In the meantime: Tell me who you’re rooting for, whether team or player, and I might feature your response in an upcoming edition. You can reach me at [email protected].
Talk to you soon,
Alex