The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey have launched an investigation into FIFA's ticketing practices for the upcoming World Cup, following widespread complaints from fans about exorbitant prices and misleading sales tactics. The probe, announced on Tuesday, focuses on whether the global soccer governing body violated consumer protection laws in the sale of tickets for matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, which will host eight games, including the final.
Variable Pricing and Seat Relocation Under Scrutiny
Subpoenas have been issued to FIFA demanding information on a range of issues, including its use of 'variable pricing' models that drove up costs for most matches. Additionally, fans have reported that redrawn stadium maps resulted in their seats being relocated far from the pitch, often at the same or higher prices. The investigation is being conducted jointly with the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.
Officials Speak Out
New York Attorney General Letitia James stated, 'New Yorkers have been waiting years for the World Cup to come to their backyard, and they deserve a fair shot at affordable tickets. No one should be manipulated into paying sky-high prices for seats, and fans should be able to trust that the tickets they purchase will be the ones they receive.'
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport accused FIFA of turning ticket purchasing 'into a gauntlet of confusion, fake scarcity, and impossibly high prices.' She added, 'It is an honor for New Jersey to host the World Cup, but the event is not an invitation to exploit our residents and visitors.'
FIFA's Response and Background
FIFA declined to comment on the investigation. The World Cup kicks off on June 11 with matches in Mexico City and Guadalajara, Mexico. The first match at MetLife Stadium, temporarily renamed New York New Jersey Stadium for the event, will feature Brazil against Morocco on June 13. Some seats for the July 19 final are reportedly selling for nearly $33,000.
In response to the controversy, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced last week that 1,000 tickets—about 150 per MetLife match excluding the final—would be made available to city residents via a lottery at $50 each. FIFA had previously offered some $60 tickets for every match, distributed through the national federations of the participating teams.
