The countdown is on for the World Cup, and it's clear that the real battle has been waged in the ticket office. Critics are slamming FIFA's record-high prices as a cash-grab at the expense of fans, with some tickets now breaching the five-figure mark – yes, you read that right, folks!
FIFA President Gianni Infantino tried to deflect the criticism on Wednesday, insisting that the current pricing structure is fair for the North American market. But let's be real, it's hard to stomach when you see prices like £8,775 ($11,190) for a single ticket to the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The availability of tickets has been all over the shop – literally! While 29 matches are completely sold out and 14 others have limited wheelchair-accessible seats remaining, there's still hope for those who've left it late. Tickets are available for 75 games, including some big-hitters like both semi-finals, four quarter-finals, five round of 16 clashes, and 14 of the new-look round of 32 matches. But don't get too excited just yet – most of these tickets fall into the pricier Category 1 and Category 2 tiers.
The resale marketplace is also an option for those desperate to get in on the action, but be warned: FIFA slaps a 15% commission on both buyer and seller. And if you thought that was steep, StubHub and SeatGeek are listing tickets at varying prices – we're talking £6,300 ($7,986) for the final on 19th July at MetLife Stadium, with some platforms charging even more!
FIFA claims it holds back a proportion of seats to accommodate teams that progress through the competition. But for fans who've been priced out, it's hard not to feel like they're missing out on the chance to witness history unfold.