In response to criticism of its pricing structure for the tournament, FIFA, the global governing body for football has introduced a limited quantity of “more affordable” $60 tickets for all 104 matches at the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA sources said, a specific number of “loyal fans” of the nations that have qualified for the World Cup will be eligible to purchase tickets at the increased price.
“We have listened to feedback and this new category is the right thing to do,” a FIFA official said adding that the decision was made unanimously.
The prior pricing structure was deemed “scandalous” by the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA).
The $60 ticket, which is part of the supporter entry category, will account for 10% of the allotment for each Football Association whose side is participating in a competition hosted by the US, Canada or Mexico.
Senior authorities in Doha, Qatar, met over the weekend and early this week to evaluate preliminary pricing comments.
English Football Association sources privately saw Tuesday’s news as a positive step after bringing up fans’ concerns over ticket prices with FIFA’s hierarchy prior to the meeting in Doha.
“The eligibility requirements and application procedure will be determined by each Participating Member Association (PMA). They are asked to make sure that these tickets are given to devoted supporters who have strong ties to their national teams.
The most economical range, which includes the supporter value tier (40%) and the supporter entrance tier (10%), will account for 50% of each PMA allocation overall. The supporter standard tier and the supporter premier tier receive an equal portion of the leftover funds.
This means that about 400 tickets for the group matches between England and Scotland will be available for $60.