FIFA’s official resale platform for the 2026 World Cup has launched, but supporters have reacted with anger as astonishing ticket prices began to surface. Many fans were stunned to find seats listed for tens of thousands of dollars.
The tournament will take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico, and demand for tickets was always expected to be high. However, the scale of the resale prices has caused widespread frustration among supporters.
Reports suggest FIFA will take a 15% commission on tickets bought and sold through its own resale system. This fee has added further controversy to the already-inflated prices.
FIFA insists the platform is designed to provide a secure environment for buying and selling tickets, arguing that US legislation makes an official resale channel essential.
Supporters hit out at soaring resale prices
Fans across social media voiced immediate concerns about the new pricing structure. One supporter highlighted the “Resale Distribution Fee”, claiming it significantly increases the final cost for anyone purchasing tickets.
Another long-time follower of international tournaments said they had secured most of their previous World Cup or Euros tickets via FIFA’s old resale system, but the updated model had now “completely ruined” that possibility.
Many believe the platform contradicts FIFA’s stated aim of ensuring fair access. Some argued that average fans were being priced out even before the competition nears kick-off in 2026.
FIFA defends 2026 World Cup pricing model
FIFA defended the new structure in a statement, claiming it simply reflects existing market norms for major entertainment events in the United States. The governing body stressed that group-stage tickets will still begin at $60.
The organisation also confirmed that certain ticket categories will remain “ringfenced” at fixed prices to guarantee access for specific groups of supporters, helping to prevent complete monopolisation by the resale market.
In its statement, FIFA emphasised that revenue from the tournament is reinvested into global football development. It expects more than 90% of its 2023-2026 budgeted investment to return to its 211 member associations, many of which rely on financial support to operate.
FGG Says
The backlash surrounding the 2026 resale platform was predictable, yet the intensity of frustration should worry FIFA. Supporters already face rising travel and accommodation costs, and the platform’s steep prices risk turning the World Cup into an event accessible only to the wealthiest fans.
While FIFA’s argument about reinvestment carries weight, it does not erase the reality that the average supporter feels increasingly excluded. Football’s greatest tournament should unite the global fanbase, not create new financial barriers. Unless FIFA introduces meaningful limits or caps, resentment will only grow as the tournament approaches.