New York and New Jersey Attorneys General Launch Investigation into FIFA Over World Cup Ticket Pricing

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NY) – The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey have launched a formal investigation into FIFA’s ticket sales practices for the 2026 World Cup following complaints from fans over misleading seat allocations and rapidly increasing prices.

According to officials, subpoenas have been issued to FIFA seeking detailed information about its ticketing system, including sales for matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, which will host several group-stage games and the tournament final on July 19.

The investigation centers on concerns that FIFA may have confused buyers by introducing new premium seating categories after initial ticket sales had already begun. Authorities said FIFA originally sold tickets under four categories based on seating quality, but later added “Front Category” tiers with higher-priced premium seats within those same sections.

Investigators allege that some fans who purchased early tickets were later assigned less desirable seats than expected, including views farther from the field or behind the goals. Others reportedly paid for higher-tier categories but received lower-quality seating.

New York Attorney General Letitia James and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said the probe will also examine FIFA’s use of variable pricing, where ticket costs fluctuate based on demand. Officials cited reports that prices for more than 90 of the 104 tournament matches increased significantly between October 2025 and April 2026, with average increases of around 34 percent.

“Fans deserve a fair shot at affordable tickets,” James said, emphasizing that consumers should not be misled or forced into paying inflated prices for unclear seating arrangements.

FIFA has also faced criticism over resale markets, where some World Cup final tickets have reportedly been listed for over $2 million.

The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament is held across three countries.

Authorities said the investigation will continue as they assess FIFA’s ticket release strategy, pricing transparency, and public communication practices.