Article by Maria Olteanu – Published Wednesday, May 27, 2026 10:07 p.m. / Updated Wednesday, May 27, 2026 10:07 p.m.
FIFA's ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup are under investigation in the United States, with New York and New Jersey launching an official inquiry on Wednesday. The US Justice Department is seeking clarification on the ticketing process for the tournament, which will take place between June 11 and July 19. Considered exorbitant ticket prices have been a point of great tension in recent months.
The investigation was announced by New York and New Jersey Attorneys General Letitia James and Jennifer Davenport. In a joint statement, they explained that the action follows “recent media articles” which “indicate that fans may have been misled about the location of the seats they purchased”. They also add that “FIFA's public statements, as well as the sale of tickets, could have contributed to the escalation of prices”, according to abola.pt.
Authorities in the two states are asking world soccer's governing body to provide detailed information on ticket sales, with a particular focus on the eight games scheduled at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, including the July 19 final. One of the central concerns is that some fans received seats in a lower category than they had purchased, resulting in worse positions in the stadium than they expected.
Problems for FIFA two weeks before the World Cup
This is not the first time that FIFA has been questioned on this issue. In mid-May, California Attorney General Rob Bonta had already sought clarification from FIFA regarding “potentially deceptive business practices,” based on an investigation by The Athletic. At the time, Bonta encouraged aggrieved Californians to file complaints.
Considered exorbitant ticket prices have been a point of great tension in recent months. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) even accused FIFA of “extortion” and a “monumental betrayal” of fans. In response to criticism, the federation told The Athletic in April that the stadium plans presented during the purchase process were only “indicative” and therefore subject to change.
