World Cup Ticket Prices Surge on FIFA Resale Platform Ahead of 2026 Tournament

World Cup ticket prices for the 2026 tournament have surged dramatically on FIFA’s official resale platform, with some seats listed at several multiples of their original face value, intensifying concerns over affordability and fan access.

Weeks after FIFA President Gianni Infantino cautioned that resale listings could attract exorbitant pricing, the market has validated those fears. A Category Three ticket — typically among the higher-tier seating sections — for the opening match between Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium on June 11 is currently listed at $5,324, up from its original price of $895.

Even more striking, a Category Three seat for the World Cup final on July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is advertised at $143,750, more than 41 times its face value of $3,450. The lowest-priced final ticket available on the resale site stands at $9,775.

While isolated cases show marginal price reductions, the broader trend reflects intense global demand. FIFA disclosed that it has received roughly 500 million ticket requests, underscoring the tournament’s commercial appeal.

FIFA maintains that it operates solely as a facilitator on the resale platform, charging a 15% service fee, while individual sellers determine prices. The governing body also applies variable pricing during official sales phases based on demand and availability.

However, supporters’ groups have criticized the soaring resale prices, arguing that they undermine fair access for genuine fans. With a final sales window opening in April on a first-come, first-served basis, scrutiny over World Cup ticket pricing is expected to intensify as the tournament approaches.