FIFA resumed ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup on Wednesday, but fans encountered technical issues and long queues shortly after the launch. The sales phase began at 11 a.m. ET, with fans directed to a queue labeled "PMA late qualifier supporters sales phase," meant for supporters of the six nations that secured qualification on Tuesday. Many remained stuck in the queue for over 90 minutes. FIFA stated around noon that the links were functioning properly but did not explain the misdirection. This phase, open until the tournament ends, marks the first time buyers can select specific seats rather than requesting tickets by category. The 104-match tournament will be hosted across 11 U.S. cities, three in Mexico, and two in Canada, running from June 11 to July 19. Dynamic pricing is being used, with previous prices ranging from $140 to $8,680. Following backlash, FIFA confirmed each national team will receive 400 to 700 $60 tickets per match for loyal supporters. This is the fifth sales phase, following earlier draws and a 48-hour unscheduled release in February. Not all remaining tickets have been released, with more expected to be made available gradually.
When 69 U.S. lawmakers criticize FIFA's dynamic pricing as contrary to global soccer access, it exposes a growing rift between commercial strategy and fan inclusivity. The $60 ticket allocation per team, limited to 700 per match, does little to offset prices that climb to $8,680. This isn't just a technical glitch — it's a credibility test for FIFA's claim of growing the game equally. For fans outside the wealthiest leagues, affordability is slipping from promise to afterthought.
