FIFA has announced plans for a final round of World Cup ticket sales, which will commence on April 1 and run until the end of the tournament. Over one million tickets had been sold by the end of the previous release period between December and February. The latest phase comes after FIFA president Gianni Infantino proclaimed in January that the demand for tickets was unprecedented. The remaining tickets will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing fans to select specific seats.

Fans have been critical of FIFA's ticket pricing strategy for the tournament, which is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The cheapest tickets for group games are priced at $140, while the most expensive tickets for the final cost $8,680. FIFA has also employed "dynamic pricing" for the first time at a World Cup, which could see costs rise even further. The move has been met with criticism from Football Supporters Europe and consumer group Euroconsumers, who have made a formal complaint with the European Commission over prices.

The latest phase of ticket sales is expected to be highly competitive, with fans eager to secure seats for the highly anticipated tournament. Remaining tickets will be allocated to fans who have already purchased tickets, allowing them to see which seats they have been allocated from April 1.

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The latest ticket sales phase is a crucial test for FIFA's pricing strategy, which has been heavily criticized by fans and consumer groups. With the tournament just months away, it remains to be seen whether FIFA's efforts to make tickets more accessible will be enough to appease disgruntled supporters. The World Cup is a showcase for the beautiful game, and FIFA must ensure that fans from all backgrounds can afford to attend.