US lawmakers demand affordable access as dynamic pricing draws criticism
WASHINGTON: FIFA is facing mounting scrutiny from US lawmakers over the soaring ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup, with 69 members of Congress urging immediate action to make the tournament accessible to all fans.
Led by Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove, the congressional letter criticized FIFA’s new dynamic pricing system, which adjusts ticket costs based on demand, inventory, and popularity. Lawmakers argued that this approach prioritizes profits over fans.
“The extreme high demand for World Cup tickets should not be a green light for price gouging at the expense of the people who make the World Cup the most-watched sporting event in the world,” the letter stated, addressed to FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
Tickets across the US, Canada, and Mexico have surged on FIFA’s resale platform, far exceeding initial bid prices. While a limited number of $60 tickets are available, critics say this does little to ease financial barriers for average fans.
Lawmakers are calling for redistribution of unallocated tickets at fairer prices, inflation control as teams advance, re-evaluation of dynamic pricing for future tournaments, and greater flexibility for host cities to fund fan festivals.
FIFA has yet to respond publicly, leaving fans and host cities awaiting clarity as the June 11 kickoff approaches. The congressional push underscores fears that the 2026 World Cup could alienate the very supporters who have made it a global spectacle for decades.
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