FIFA hit with brutal verdict as 2026 World Cup labelled a fan-priced ‘bust’ compared to USA 1994

The 2026 World Cup may have broken viewing records and packed out stadiums, but questions continue to be asked about whether it truly delivered for supporters.

And some believe the tournament has fallen short of its 1994 predecessor for one key reason – affordability.

Has the 2026 World Cup been a bust in the US?

Football journalist Andy Brassell believes the tournament has failed to replicate the long-term impact of the iconic 1994 edition held in the United States because ticket prices have made the event inaccessible for many supporters.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Brassell argued that while the expanded 48-team competition has generated huge television audiences and impressive attendances, the cost of attending matches has been “prohibitively expensive” for first-time fans.

He suggested the USA '94 played a greater role in growing football in the country because it was affordable and accessible, allowing more people to experience the tournament in person.

Brassell also questioned FIFA's wider objective of growing the game, arguing that commercial opportunities have often appeared to take priority over supporter accessibility.

He pointed to the prominence of influencers at matches and suggested genuine fans are essential to creating the atmosphere that elevates major tournaments.

While acknowledging Argentina supporters as a notable exception throughout the competition, Brassell argued that many other matches lacked the same atmosphere because high prices made attendance less inclusive.

The comments come despite the tournament attracting record television audiences in the United States and widespread optimism from former US Soccer president Alan Rothenberg, who believes football's popularity will continue to surge in the coming years.

FGG says: The World Cup deserves better access for fans

There is little doubt the 2026 World Cup has showcased outstanding stadiums, huge crowds and significant commercial success.

But throughout the tournament, ticket prices have remained one of the biggest talking points, with dynamic pricing, eye-watering hospitality packages and soaring resale values repeatedly overshadowing the football itself.

If FIFA's aim is to inspire the next generation of supporters, making it easier for ordinary fans to attend must remain a priority.

So it is difficult to disagree with Brassell's central point, as the 2026 edition often felt geared towards maximising revenue rather than accessibility, and that became a recurring theme from the opening match to the final.

The good news for supporters is that ticket pricing is unlikely to dominate the conversation in the same way at UEFA Euro 2028, where a more traditional approach should make attending matches considerably more attainable for genuine fans.