Megan Rapinoe Draws Backlash for Promoting $6,050 World Cup Hospitality Tickets

2 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 19

$6,050 pitchside hospitality packages for the June 12 USA-Paraguay match in Los Angeles triggered criticism after Rapinoe promoted them in a paid Instagram partnership with FIFA.
Fans on her post called the offer elitist and unaffordable, with comments saying only the "1%" could pay and accusing her of pricing out regular supporters.
The promotion highlighted a sharp gap between premium packages and standard seats, with single-match tickets for the same game listed at just over $1,000.
The backlash adds to scrutiny around Rapinoe's public image, as critics argue the sponsorship clashes with her past advocacy for ordinary fans and broader accessibility in sports.

Has Megan Rapinoe's promotion of elite tickets tarnished her legacy as a champion for equality?

With World Cup tickets soaring, is the beautiful game now exclusively for the wealthy?

As athletes become brands, can they truly remain authentic advocates for social change?