FIFA is at the center of an investigation led by US authorities after being accused of potentially deceptive practices in the sale of tickets for the 2026 World Cup. Attorneys general from the states of New York and New Jersey announced the opening of an investigation to verify allegations of excessive pricing, artificially created scarcity, and alleged lack of transparency in the ticket sales process.
The case increases the pressure on the world's governing body of football on the eve of the tournament, which will be played in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The investigation could force FIFA to provide internal documents and detailed explanations about its ticket sales policy.
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport was one of the leading voices to criticize the system adopted by the agency.
“Being honest about ticket sales isn’t complicated,” Davenport said. “It’s an honor to host the World Cup, but the event isn’t an invitation to exploit our residents and visitors.”
According to her, the purchasing process turned into a "mess of confusion, artificial scarcity, and extremely high prices." The prosecutor also stated that there will be a "thorough investigation into FIFA's conduct," including issuing subpoenas to obtain information and documents.
Complaints involve the prices and location of seats.
The investigation was announced jointly by Davenport, New York Attorney General Letitia James, and the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP).
Among the main complaints presented by fans is the allegation that many consumers were misled regarding the location of the seats they purchased. The problem is related to the subsequent creation of premium categories called "front," which began offering seats considered more privileged for an additional fee.
Authorities also want to understand the dynamic pricing policy used throughout the various sales phases. According to the allegations, the strategy allowed for significant adjustments in the prices charged for most matches in the tournament.
The investigation will seek to clarify whether the sales schedule and public statements made by FIFA artificially influenced the perception of scarcity and contributed to the price increase.
Tickets reached record prices.
One of the central points of the investigation involves the cost of tickets for matches considered to be of greater appeal, especially those that will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, including the World Cup final.
US authorities have requested explanations as to why ticket prices have reached levels higher than those recorded in any previous edition of the tournament.
Despite FIFA's constant announcements highlighting extraordinary demand for the World Cup, prosecutors noted that, until a few days ago, tickets were still available for 86 of the 104 scheduled matches, including almost all group stage matches.
Attorney General Letitia James stated that consumers need access to a fair and transparent process.
“No one should be manipulated into paying exorbitant prices for seats, and fans should be able to trust that the tickets they buy are the ones they will receive,” James added.
Consumer protection agency views situation with concern.
The New York Department of Consumer and Worker Protection also expressed concern about the allegations.
Commissioner Samuel AA Levine stated that the agency will rigorously investigate the allegations made by consumers.
According to him, fans have the right to expect "transparency and fairness" when buying tickets for one of the biggest sporting events on the planet.
“Reports of FIFA’s conduct in violation of the city’s consumer protection law, including misleading fans about seat locations and artificially inflating prices, are deeply concerning,” Levine stated.
Pressure on FIFA is growing in the United States.
The new investigation is not an isolated incident. Earlier this month, California Attorney General Rob Bonta had already sent a letter to FIFA expressing concern about possible "potentially deceptive ticketing practices."
In recent months, the organization has also faced disagreements with local authorities regarding the costs associated with hosting the World Cup.
One of the main points of contention occurred in New Jersey. The state's governor, Mikie Sherrill, criticized FIFA's decision not to subsidize part of the transportation system used by fans during the tournament.
The controversy gained momentum after the state-owned company NJ Transit initially announced that the rail fare to access the stadium would be $150. Following strong negative feedback, the price was reduced to $98.
In comparison, the regular fare for a round trip between Penn Station in Manhattan and the stadium area is around US$12,90.
FIFA avoids commenting on accusations.
To date, FIFA has not commented on the allegations or on the formal opening of investigations conducted by authorities in New York and New Jersey.
The organization has repeatedly argued that the prices reflect the high demand for tickets. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has argued that demand for the tournament has reached exceptionally high levels, describing public interest as "totally crazy."
Now, however, the organization will have to answer questions from US authorities and clarify whether the strategies adopted in the sale of tickets respected the consumer protection regulations in force in the United States.
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