In a major victory for football fans worldwide, FIFA has officially introduced a new low-cost ticket tier for the upcoming World Cup, following a week of intense backlash over what supporters called “extortionate” pricing.
The governing body announced on Tuesday that it will reserve a specific portion of tickets for every match at a significantly reduced rate of $60, ensuring that the tournament remains accessible to the sport’s most dedicated followers.
A “Monumental Betrayal” Reversed
The controversy erupted last week when members of national team travel clubs and loyalty schemes gained access to the initial ticket sales. Fans were shocked to find that the cheapest available seats for the World Cup Final in New Jersey were priced at over $4,000.
The outcry was immediate. Football Supporters Europe (FSE), a leading fan advocacy group, labeled the pricing a “monumental betrayal” of the average fan, arguing that the tournament was being turned into an exclusive event for the ultra-wealthy.
The New “Loyalty” Tier
Following emergency meetings between senior officials in Doha, FIFA moved to mitigate the PR disaster. The new policy mandates that:
- 10% Allocation: Every Participant Member Association (PMA) will receive 10% of their ticket allocation for every match at the $60 price point.
- Final Included: Crucially, this $60 rate applies even to the Final, representing a massive reduction from the previously reported $4,000 entry price.
- Focus on Loyalty: These tickets are specifically earmarked for fans who are part of official national team loyalty programs, rewarding those who follow their teams year-round.
Pressure from Within
It wasn’t just fan groups pushing for change. Sources indicate that several national federations expressed deep concern over the pricing model during meetings in Doha this week. Officials warned that empty “fan blocks” or stadiums filled only by corporate sponsors would damage the tournament’s atmosphere and global brand.
The FIFA Council is set to convene in Qatar today, Wednesday, December 17, 2025, to formally ratify these changes and discuss further logistics for the tournament.
What This Means for Fans
For the millions of fans planning to travel to North America next July, this announcement offers a glimmer of hope. While the majority of tickets will likely remain expensive, the $60 tier provides a pathway for the “traditional” supporter to witness the world’s biggest sporting event without financial ruin.
As the FIFA Council meets today, the world will be watching to see if the governing body continues to prioritize the “beautiful game’s” roots over its bottom line.
