FIFA subpoenaed over World Cup ticket prices and 'deceiving' seat locations

FIFA is facing an investigation into its ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup by chief legal officers in the United States.

Attorneys general from New York and New Jersey have demanded answers from FIFA following allegations of "artificially inflating prices" and "misleading fans" regarding match ticket sales.

A subpoena has been issued, requiring FIFA to provide information amidst reports that supporters may have been deceived about seat locations. FIFA's public statements and ticket releases are also accused of contributing to escalating prices.

New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and her New York counterpart, Letitia James, have specifically requested details concerning ticketing for eight World Cup matches scheduled to be held in New Jersey. These include England's group stage fixture against Panama on 27 June and the World Cup final on 19 July.

Davenport said: “Being honest about ticket sales is not complicated.

“But FIFA has turned buying a ticket to the World Cup into a gauntlet of confusion, fake scarcity, and impossibly high prices – all at the expense of consumers and hardworking New Jerseyans.

“We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation of FIFA’s conduct, and we are proud to stand together with Attorney General James in protecting our consumers.

“It’s an honour to host the World Cup, but the event is not an invitation to exploit our residents and visitors.”

Supporters have reported they were “misled” about the location of seats, including through the creation of more expensive ‘front’ category tickets released after the initial sales.

It is also alleged variable pricing through various phases and subject to demand had allowed FIFA to raise prices for about 90 of the 104 fixtures by an average of 34 per cent.

The investigation will consider how the ticket release schedule and public statements may have impacted prices.

James said: “New Yorkers have been waiting years for the World Cup to come to their backyard, and they deserve a fair shot at affordable tickets.