• FIFA will sell $60 tickets for the 2026 World Cup after criticism over high prices.
• Only 10% of tickets for each team will be available at this lower price category.
• Fan groups have criticized the move as insufficient amid rising overall costs.
• 20 million ticket requests have already been made despite the backlash.
• The final is set to take place on July 19, 2026, in New Jersey.

Following significant backlash from fans regarding exorbitant ticket prices, FIFA has announced a new "Supporter Entry Tier" with tickets priced at $60 for all matches in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, scheduled to be held across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The announcement was made on December 16, with FIFA stating that these tickets aim to "support traveling fans following their national teams across the tournament" according to CBS News, NPR, and Le Monde.

The $60 ticket category will be limited, with only 10% of tickets allocated to qualified teams made available at this price. This translates to a mere 0.8% of stadium capacity, as countries are tasked with determining which fans are eligible to purchase these cheaper tickets. This limitation has raised concerns from fan groups about the efficacy of the initiative, as it will likely leave many dedicated fans still facing high prices, according to NPR and Le Monde.

Many fans and organizations, including Football Supporters Europe, have labeled previous ticket price estimates as "astronomical" and "a betrayal," considering that prices for some matches go as high as $4,185 for the final. They argue that the latest change does little to alleviate the burden on dedicated supporters who want to attend multiple matches during the tournament, which could cost upwards of $6,900 for a full experience according to CBS News and Le Monde.

Despite the criticism, FIFA reported receiving about 20 million ticket requests within the initial sales window, showcasing strong demand for the event. The organization emphasizes its non-profit status and claims that revenue generated will be directed towards the development of football at all levels. However, travel and accommodation costs have also surged, indicating that the 2026 World Cup could be one of the most expensive yet, raising further concerns for fans, according to NPR and Le Monde.