FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the organization’s handling of ticket prices and visa issues ahead of the 2026 World Cup kickoff, calling for fans to “relax” amid rising criticisms over costs and immigration complications.
Speaking in Mexico City on June 10, the eve of the tournament’s opening match between Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Azteca, Infantino addressed concerns about soaring ticket prices and visa-related controversies affecting officials and supporters.
The FIFA President justified the high ticket prices by citing the tournament’s entry price of $60 as the lowest of any American sports in the play-off phases, with an average price below $500, which he said is again the lowest of American sports on average.
Infantino defended the US$60 starting ticket price, noting that over six million tickets have been sold. He likened World Cup ticket costs to playoff tickets in major American sports leagues, saying “If we are making a mistake, then everyone in North America is also at fault.”
He also played down the controversy surrounding Somali World Cup referee Omar Artan, who was refused entry to the United States after arriving in Miami on June 6 following security concerns raised by US immigration authorities. FIFA confirmed Artan will play no part in the tournament.
Infantino addressed the US denying entry to Somali referee Omar Artan due to “terror links,” stating FIFA cannot override government immigration decisions, emphasizing that “We don’t have control over everything.”
The President urged individuals to trust FIFA, saying “Sometimes it’s beneficial to simply relax and take a step back. We aim to resolve all issues, but yelling and being agitated does not lead to solutions.”
The 2026 World Cup is the most expensive for fans in tournament history, with some tickets topping $30,000 and the cheapest group stage ticket at $167.
Infantino predicted a highly competitive tournament for the expanded 48-team World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
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FIFA defends ticket prices and visa handling ahead of World Cup start
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the organization's handling of ticket prices and visa issues ahead of the 2026 World Cup kickoff, calling for fans to "relax" amid rising criticisms over costs and immigration complications. Speaking in Mexico City on June 10, the eve of the tournament's opening match between Mexico and South Africa at Estadio Azteca, Infantino addressed concerns about soaring ticket prices and visa-related controversies affecting officials and supporters. The FIFA President justified the high ticket prices by citing the tournament's entry price of $60 as the lowest of any American sports in the play-off phases, with an average price below $500, which he said is again the lowest of American sports on average. Infantino defended the US$60 starting ticket price, noting that over six million tickets have been sold. He likened World Cup ticket costs to playoff […]
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