England 2026 World Cup opener tickets soar as FIFA chief summoned to Congress over ‘price‑gouging’

The controversy surrounding 2026 World Cup ticket prices has intensified once again, with fresh political pressure now being placed on FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

England supporters are among those feeling the impact, with ticket prices for the Three Lions' opening match against Croatia reaching eye-watering levels less than two weeks before the tournament begins.

England vs Croatia tickets reach highs as Gianni Infantino demand made

FIFA is facing growing scrutiny in the United States over its alleged ‘price-gouging' after Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove called for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to answer questions before Congress.

The California representative described FIFA's ticket pricing as a “total shakedown” and voiced support for ongoing investigations being conducted by authorities in New York and New Jersey.

The latest criticism comes as ticket prices for England's opening World Cup fixture against Croatia continue to attract attention.

According to the Daily Mail, the cheapest available seats for the match at AT&T Stadium in Arlington are currently priced at around £524, while some tickets are being listed for more than £1,400.

The issue has already prompted action from the attorneys general of New York and New Jersey, who recently launched an investigation into FIFA's ticket sales practices and issued subpoenas seeking information about pricing and availability.

One area of concern centres on FIFA's use of dynamic pricing, which adjusts ticket prices according to demand.

Critics argue the system has pushed prices beyond the reach of many ordinary supporters, while questions have also been raised about ticket availability and claims of “fake scarcity”.

The scrutiny is not limited to England matches.

Reports suggest thousands of tickets remain available for other tournament fixtures, including the opening game between the United States and Paraguay, despite some supporters facing extremely high prices for premium matches.

FIFA has consistently defended its approach, arguing that pricing reflects market demand.

FGG says: FIFA has a growing perception problem

Whether FIFA believes its pricing strategy is justified or not, the optics are becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

When supporters are seeing prices of £500-plus for group-stage matches, it becomes easier to understand why politicians, fan groups and investigators are starting to ask questions.

The concern for FIFA is not simply the cost itself, but the growing perception that ordinary supporters are being squeezed out of football's biggest tournament.

There will still be huge crowds and plenty of demand for major matches, particularly those involving England, but the longer this debate continues, the more it risks overshadowing what should be a celebration of the World Cup returning to North America.