FIFA has come under intense scrutiny as ticket prices for the upcoming 2024 World Cup have been criticized as exorbitant. Loyal fans may need to pay upwards of £3,000 (approximately $4,000) for the cheapest tickets to the final, which is scheduled for July 19, 2024. The Croatian Football Federation recently disclosed pricing details for its participant member association (PMA) allocation, which aims to make tickets available to fans who attend multiple matches.
The cheapest tickets for the final, as listed by the Croatian FA, are priced at $4,185 (around £3,120) each. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) has responded strongly, labeling FIFA’s pricing strategy a “monumental betrayal” of dedicated fans. The organization pointed out that, based on available information, fans could face a staggering €6,900 (approximately $8,111) to attend every match from the opener to the final through the PMA allocation. This figure is five times higher than what fans paid for similar access during the last finals in Qatar.
FSE expressed its astonishment at the pricing structure, stating, “This is a monumental betrayal of the tradition of the World Cup, ignoring the contribution of supporters to the spectacle it is.” The organization is demanding that FIFA immediately halt PMA ticket sales, consult with affected parties, and reassess ticket prices and categories to align with the cultural significance of the tournament.
Concerns Over Ticket Pricing Structure
The PMA allocations represent eight percent of a stadium’s capacity for each match. FSE noted that instead of implementing a standard price for all group matches, ticket costs seem to vary based on “vague criteria such as the perceived attractiveness of the fixture.” This approach raises concerns about fairness and accessibility for fans worldwide.
The Football Association is expected to announce ticket pricing details to members of the England Supporters Travel Club (ESTC) shortly. In a statement posted on X, the fans’ group Free Lions showed support for FSE’s position, calling the current prices “shocking” and beyond the already high costs anticipated.
“Match-goers across the world deserve protection from these rip-off prices,” their statement emphasized.
For the opening match on June 17, 2024, England supporters can expect to pay a minimum of £198 for tickets through the PMA allocation.
Ticket Sales Process and Future Outlook
FIFA is set to open a random selection draw for World Cup tickets at 16:00 GMT on Thursday. All fans, not just those purchasing through the PMA allocation, will have the opportunity to apply online until January 13, 2024. Fans will find out after the sales window closes how many tickets they have secured, with their credit cards charged accordingly. Earlier sales had utilized dynamic pricing, which meant ticket costs fluctuated based on demand.
FIFA has been approached for comment regarding the backlash over ticket pricing, but as of now, no official response has been provided. As the tournament approaches, the conversation around ticket accessibility and fairness continues to grow, highlighting the ongoing tensions between fan loyalty and financial barriers in the world of football.
