FIFA is under investigation in the United States over complaints related to high World Cup ticket prices and disputed seating arrangements that have drawn criticism from football fans ahead of the tournament.
Authorities in New York and New Jersey have launched a joint inquiry into whether FIFA’s ticket sales practices violated consumer protection laws as both states prepare to host World Cup matches, including the final at MetLife Stadium.
Officials said subpoenas have already been issued to FIFA seeking information about its ticketing system, particularly the use of variable pricing, which reportedly caused ticket costs to rise sharply during sales periods.
The investigation is also examining complaints from supporters who said seating arrangements were changed after purchase, leaving some fans farther from the pitch than originally expected.
The inquiry is being conducted with assistance from New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection and is mainly focused on ticket sales connected to matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford.
Letitia James said football supporters deserve transparent and fair access to tickets after waiting years for the tournament to arrive in the United States.
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport also criticised the ticketing process, describing it as confusing and unfair due to what she called artificial scarcity and soaring prices.
FIFA has not yet publicly responded to the investigation.
The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11 in Mexico, while the first match at MetLife Stadium will take place on June 13 between Brazil national football team and Morocco national football team.
Ticket prices for the tournament have sparked widespread discussion online, with some seats for the July 19 final reportedly reaching as high as $33,000.
In response to criticism over affordability, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced a lottery programme offering 1,000 tickets to city residents for $50 each.
The discounted tickets will apply to matches at MetLife Stadium but will not include the final.
Earlier, FIFA also released a limited allocation of $60 tickets through participating national football associations.
The investigation adds fresh pressure on FIFA as preparations continue for one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
-20260527062401.jpg)
-20260528053923.png)
