FIFA Introduces £45 Tickets for 2026 World Cup Amid Criticism

FIFA has announced a new tier of "more affordable" tickets priced at £45 ($60) for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, responding to widespread criticism regarding high ticket prices. This decision comes after fans expressed concerns about accessibility, particularly as the tournament will be held across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The new tickets will be available to a limited number of "loyal fans" from countries participating in the World Cup, accounting for 10% of ticket allocations for each participating association. This means around 400 tickets will be offered at the reduced price for matches involving England and Scotland.

Reactions to FIFA's announcement have been mixed. UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer welcomed the move but urged for further efforts to ensure tickets remain affordable for true supporters. The Football Supporters' Association (FSA) and Football Supporters Europe (FSE) have expressed cautious approval, labeling the change a "hollow gesture" that still falls short of addressing the broader issues of ticket pricing.

With demand soaring—over 20 million tickets requested in the latest phase—the pressure on FIFA to balance fan accessibility with commercial interests remains high. As ticket sales continue, the attention is now focused on ensuring that genuine supporters can attend and enjoy the event without financial barriers.