2026 World Cup has left fans with disabilities ‘excluded’ as FIFA’s ‘aggressive profiteering’ slammed

Fans with disabilities have accused FIFA of effectively pricing them out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with campaigners warning that current ticketing policies risk excluding a key section of supporters.

The tournament, set to be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, has already faced backlash over soaring ticket prices, but criticism is now intensifying around accessibility.

Supporters say the system marks a clear departure from previous tournaments, with no dedicated ballot for disabled fans and significantly higher overall costs. For many, the combination of ticket pricing, resale inflation and added charges has made attending matches unrealistic.

England fan Jo McNicol, who uses a wheelchair and has attended previous tournaments, admitted she is now unlikely to travel despite making early plans. 

“I just think they've priced people out,” she said to DW. “Now the whole thing about ticketing… it’s just impossible to get tickets.”

Campaigners warn policies are excluding disabled supporters from 2026 World Cup

Advocacy groups argue that the current approach represents a major step backwards. Football Supporters Europe has criticised the decision to charge for companion tickets, something that is usually free at major sporting events, warning that it effectively doubles the cost for many disabled fans.

James Flanagan, a member of advocacy group Football Supporters Europe, said: “Charging for a companion ticket… effectively doubles the cost,” adding that the policy is “a step back” that is “excluding people with disabilities from the tournament.”

Concerns have also been raised about seating arrangements, with FIFA stating companions will be placed as close as possible but not guaranteeing adjacent seats. For fans who rely on assistance throughout a matchday, that uncertainty has been described as unacceptable.

Rising costs and accessibility concerns deepen backlash

The criticism goes beyond ticket access alone. Supporters have also pointed to expensive accessible parking and rising resale prices as further barriers, with some describing the situation as “aggressive profiteering.”

McNicol questioned the lack of clarity and fairness in the system, saying: “They won’t even guarantee that the companion ticket is going to be next to you… but you need them.”

Campaigners have contrasted the situation with the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where accessible tickets were more affordable and allocated through a dedicated system. 

They argue that the current model contradicts FIFA’s stated commitments to inclusion and risks leaving many disabled fans behind.

FGG Says

This is quickly becoming one of the most serious off-field controversies surrounding the 2026 World Cup.

Accessibility should be a baseline standard, not a premium experience. If disabled supporters feel excluded before the tournament has even begun, it raises fundamental questions about how inclusive modern football events really are.

FIFA still have time to respond, but without meaningful changes, the backlash is only likely to grow.