FIFA is facing significant legal pressure in the United States as officials from several states have launched investigations into ticket sales for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Authorities in New York, New Jersey, and California are examining claims that fans were misled by rising prices, limited ticket availability, and changing seating categories. The controversy has escalated following reports that many stadiums still have thousands of unsold seats despite extremely expensive ticket prices.
US Officials Question FIFA Ticketing Practices
According to The Sun, authorities in New York and New Jersey have formally demanded explanations from FIFA regarding the ticketing process. Officials are investigating whether supporters were encouraged to purchase expensive tickets under the impression that seats were running out. Consumer protection experts are also looking into allegations that some seating sections were intentionally withheld from sale to create artificial demand. California officials are separately reviewing complaints linked to matches at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Concerns have been raised after reports claimed FIFA altered seating maps during different sales phases, moving certain areas into more expensive categories. FIFA later explained that the seating charts were only intended as general guidance.
The issue has become even more controversial after figures showed that many World Cup matches still have large numbers of unsold tickets. England's opening group-stage game against Croatia at AT&T Stadium in Arlington reportedly still has seats available across several sections. However, ticket prices remain extremely high, with premium seats costing more than £1,400. Local officials in Arlington revealed that only around half of the available tickets for matches at the stadium have been sold so far. Experts now believe FIFA could eventually lower prices closer to the tournament, similar to what happened during the Club World Cup last year when some tickets were heavily discounted.
Fan Criticism and Political Scrutiny
Fans have strongly criticized FIFA's handling of ticket sales. Several supporters accused the organization of making tickets appear scarce while keeping prices high. Outgoing Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola also questioned why ordinary seats were being sold at such expensive rates. The controversy has reached the US Congress, where lawmakers questioned whether FIFA deliberately restricted ticket supply to increase demand and push prices higher ahead of the tournament. FIFA has not yet publicly responded to the growing criticism or the investigations launched by state authorities and US lawmakers.
