FIFA president has ignorant message for fans outpriced of World Cup tickets: ‘Should chill’

Key Points:

• The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted across the US, Mexico, and Canada, has sparked mixed reactions due to high ticket prices that many fans find prohibitive despite their passion for soccer.
• Some devoted fans, like Belgian superfan Adam El Manawy, are willing to spend upwards of $12,000 to $15,000 traveling across North America to follow their teams, viewing the event as a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth the expense.
• Conversely, many dedicated supporters, including seasoned soccer traveler Joe Connor, are being priced out, with ticket costs for key matches reaching nearly $1,200, leading them to watch from home instead.
• The high cost of attending the World Cup contrasts sharply with other international soccer experiences fans could afford, highlighting a financial barrier that threatens to exclude many passionate followers despite the tournament being hosted domestically.
• FIFA president Gianni Infantino has downplayed concerns about ticket prices, comparing them to other major US sporting events, but the economic reality for many fans remains a significant obstacle to participation.