FIFA faces intense backlash as World Cup ticket prices spark outrage among fans, with the cheapest ticket for a final match costing over £3,000.
The revelation comes ahead of a random selection draw for World Cup tickets, which was opened by tournament organizers FIFA at 4 pm UK time on Thursday. Fans are being given the chance to buy tickets online between now and January 13 at fixed prices, with no indication that prices will rise or fall based on demand.
According to Football Supporters Europe (FSE), these ticket prices are a "monumental betrayal" of fans, who feel they have been left out in the cold due to an unfair pricing system. FSE believes that FIFA's method of allocating tickets dependent on vague criteria such as perceived attractiveness of a match is also deeply flawed.
England football supporters group Free Lions described the price as "shocking prices above and beyond what we suspected", with ticket costs ranging between $4,185 and $8,680 for England fans. The cheapest tickets start at just over £2,000 for Croatia's first round game while a final ticket for England will cost an eye-watering six grand.
As the World Cup approaches, concerns have been raised about the sustainability of FIFA's approach to ticket pricing in light of rising inflation and financial difficulties faced by many football supporters.
The revelation comes ahead of a random selection draw for World Cup tickets, which was opened by tournament organizers FIFA at 4 pm UK time on Thursday. Fans are being given the chance to buy tickets online between now and January 13 at fixed prices, with no indication that prices will rise or fall based on demand.
According to Football Supporters Europe (FSE), these ticket prices are a "monumental betrayal" of fans, who feel they have been left out in the cold due to an unfair pricing system. FSE believes that FIFA's method of allocating tickets dependent on vague criteria such as perceived attractiveness of a match is also deeply flawed.
England football supporters group Free Lions described the price as "shocking prices above and beyond what we suspected", with ticket costs ranging between $4,185 and $8,680 for England fans. The cheapest tickets start at just over £2,000 for Croatia's first round game while a final ticket for England will cost an eye-watering six grand.
As the World Cup approaches, concerns have been raised about the sustainability of FIFA's approach to ticket pricing in light of rising inflation and financial difficulties faced by many football supporters.
! I mean, £3k+ for a final match? It's just not right. Fans are already getting priced out of the game, now they're making it impossible to afford. And what's up with that whole "perceived attractiveness of a match" thing? Like, who gets to decide if a match is attractive or not? It doesn't make sense. 
I mean, £2k for Croatia's game is still a lot, but at least that one isn't as ridiculous as the England final ticket. It's just not right that fans have to shell out so much money just to watch their team play. 
I cant even believe what im seeing here... £3k for a final match ticket is insane!!! 
I mean, I know it costs a lot to host the World Cup but come on FIFA, can't you just make it more affordable for fans? 
And whats with the vague criteria for ticket allocation? It sounds like a total mess to me. 
and thats not just the fans, think about all the people who work at stadiums or sell merchandise, they're probably getting squeezed too. its all about making that money back from these massive tournaments, but what about the fans?! we should be able to enjoy the game without breaking the bank 
. I get that FIFA has expenses, but does it have to be this harsh on the fans? They're already feeling stressed about inflation and stuff, now they've got this added pressure... it's not fair 
. And £2k for Croatia? That's just cruel 
.
. £3k is insane for a final match! I remember when my uncle went to Brazil 2014, tickets were way more affordable 
. Now it's all about who can afford the most cash and not about the fans' experience at all 
. I mean, what's the point of even having a fan zone or live match atmosphere if you're gonna be stuck in your seat? 
It's just so...not right 
i mean, can you imagine if the lottery ticket prices were that high and everyone had to shell out £3k just to watch a random game of football? would be hilarious if not so cringeworthy for actual fans who actually care about the sport
I feel kinda bad for fans tryna catch a glimpse of the World Cup. £3k+ for one final match is just crazy talk! 
It's gonna be hard for people to justify these prices when you consider inflation is still a thing and many are feeling the pinch. Anyone else think this is just ridiculous? 
