Former President Donald Trump stated he would not pay over $1,000 for a ticket to watch the United States play in the World Cup. His comments come amid growing criticism of FIFA's ticket pricing for the 2026 tournament.
In an interview with the New York Post, Trump expressed disappointment at the high costs that may prevent many fans, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds, from attending.
"I would certainly like to be there, but I wouldn't pay it either, to be honest with you," Trump said, highlighting his concern for supporters from areas like Queens and Brooklyn.
Critics, including lawmakers and international fan groups, have decried FIFA's pricing structure, with Football Supporters Europe calling it a "monumental betrayal."
Trump emphasized the need for his voter base to have access to the event, stating, "I would like to be able to have the people that voted for me to be able to go."
FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the pricing strategy, noting a staggering 500 million ticket requests for 2026, compared to less than 50 million for the previous two World Cups.
Infantino also mentioned that 25% of group stage tickets would be available for under $300, though many fans find the overall pricing excessive.
The contrast in ticket costs between the upcoming World Cup and the 2022 Qatar tournament has raised eyebrows, with the most expensive ticket for the final in Qatar priced at around $1,600, while top tickets for 2026 could reach $11,000.