Nearly 70 U.S. lawmakers say dynamic pricing could price out everyday fans—including Latino families—during the historic North American tournament.
With the countdown underway for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, a group of nearly 70 members of Congress is raising concerns that soaring ticket prices could shut out many of the very fans who helped make soccer the world’s most popular sport.
Led by California Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove, lawmakers sent a formal letter to FIFA President Gianni Infantino urging the organization to reduce prices and reconsider the use of dynamic pricing for the 2026 tournament.
The letter, signed by 68 additional House Democrats, argues that fluctuating ticket prices driven by demand risk turning the global event into what they called an “exclusionary, profit-driven enterprise.”
“This tournament should be accessible to the communities that love the sport the most,” the lawmakers wrote, emphasizing the importance of affordability for fans across host cities.
Dynamic pricing—a system commonly used in the airline and concert industries—allows ticket prices to rise as demand increases. Critics say the approach can lead to dramatic spikes during major events.
Lawmakers argue the model could disproportionately affect working-class fans and immigrant communities that have historically driven soccer’s growth in the United States.
According to data published by The New York Times and other outlets covering the ticket rollout, prices for the opening match in Mexico City currently range from roughly $560 to $2,735, while some premium seats have reportedly climbed as high as $8,680.
Group stage matches across host cities are generally priced between $100 and $575, though prices can fluctuate depending on demand.
The lawmakers’ letter calls on FIFA to take several steps before the tournament begins:
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End or limit dynamic pricing for World Cup tickets
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Redistribute unused ticket blocks at more affordable prices
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Prevent price gouging during later tournament rounds
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Support host cities by allowing greater flexibility to fund public fan festivals
Fan festivals—large public viewing events—are considered a major part of World Cup culture. Several cities hosting matches in the United States have reportedly scaled back festival plans because of funding challenges.
FIFA’s Response
A spokesperson for FIFA confirmed the organization has received the congressional letter and is reviewing the concerns.
Previously, FIFA announced a limited number of $60 “Supporter Entry Tier” tickets intended for loyal fans of qualifying national teams. However, lawmakers say that allocation may be too small to meaningfully expand access.
The 2026 tournament will be the largest World Cup in history, expanding to 48 teams and expected to attract millions of fans across North America.
For many Latino communities in the United States—where soccer participation and viewership have surged in recent years—the event represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to experience the sport’s biggest stage close to home.
Whether those fans will be able to afford it remains part of a growing debate about the balance between global sports entertainment and accessibility.
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