Infantino Defends $140 World Cup Tickets as FIFA Faces U.S. Visa and Pricing Scrutiny
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 10
Infantino Defends $140 World Cup Tickets as FIFA Faces U.S. Visa and Pricing Scrutiny
3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 10
Summary
$140 opening ticket prices and seats once raised to $32,970 for the July 19 final drew Infantino's defense, with the FIFA president saying critics should compare them with North American playoff sports.
130,000 tickets were set aside at $60 for supporters through national federations, while Infantino said the tournament's average ticket price was under $500 and dismissed probes by attorneys general in four U.S. states.
Omar Artan, a Somali referee denied U.S. entry, was described by Infantino as an unfortunate case, but he said FIFA cannot tell governments whom to admit and is only working behind the scenes.
Iran's team will base itself in Mexico and fly into the U.S. for matches, a workaround Infantino cited as proof FIFA had kept the 48-team tournament intact despite war and visa tensions.
Will FIFA's new anti-timewasting rules actually make football matches longer and more frustrating for fans?
As VAR's power expands into more subjective calls, is the game's essential human element being lost?
How will new hydration breaks for TV ads change the natural flow and commercialization of the beautiful game?
2026 FIFA World Cup Rule Revolution: AI Offside, Hydration Breaks, and Anti-Timewasting Measures
Overview
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a major turning point for football, with IFAB-approved rule changes being immediately implemented for the tournament and set for global adoption in the following season. These reforms aim to make the game fairer, faster, and more transparent by cracking down on timewasting and unsporting behavior. A key innovation is the AI Offside System, which streamlines decision-making and reduces delays, promising a more dynamic experience for players and fans. Together, these changes signal a new era for football, transforming how the game is played and enjoyed worldwide.