Fifa is facing renewed backlash from football fans after its official resale platform listed four seats for the World Cup final at nearly $2.3 million (£1.71 million). The tickets, located behind a goal in the lower deck of MetLife Stadium, are among hundreds of listings on the marketplace that have drawn sharp criticism for their exorbitant prices.
Resale Fees and Pricing
While Fifa does not set the asking prices on its resale site, it charges a 15 per cent purchase fee from the buyer and a 15 per cent commission from the seller. Other eye-watering listings include an aisle seat priced at $207,000 (£153,600) and a category two seat in the last row of the uppermost third deck listed at $138,000 (£102,400). Even the cheapest available final tickets start at just under $11,000 (£8,200) for four seats.
Infantino Defends Costs
Fifa president Gianni Infantino defended the steep ticket prices last week, stating that World Cup revenue is the organisation’s sole source of income every four years. He emphasised that the money is reinvested into developing football across 211 member associations, as Fifa operates as a non-profit entity.
Fan Criticism Over Ticket Releases
A recent release of World Cup tickets, including a new “front category” pricing tier, has sparked online outrage. Supporters allege that superior seats were deliberately withheld from earlier category purchases, forcing them to pay higher prices or turn to the resale market. Many fans have accused Fifa of prioritising profit over accessibility.
