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FIFA, led by president Gianni Infantino, faces heavy criticism over its ticket pricing policy for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico. Fans and politicians accused FIFA of being ‘out of touch’ and ignoring real supporters’ purchasing power.

FIFA opened a 10-day priority window Wednesday for Visa cardholders before general ticket applications begin 1 October. But anger grew over ‘variable pricing’, a system where ticket costs rise depending on application date, leaving late applicants paying more for identical seats.

The Independent reported concerns about lack of price transparency. Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe, said FIFA sent ‘the wrong message’, noting the tournament will already be costly due to travel and logistics. He argued FIFA, with its vast reserves, did not need to raise revenue from tickets.

In New York, mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani launched a campaign titled Game Over Greed, calling for scrapping variable pricing, capping resale prices, and reserving 15% of tickets at discounted rates for locals.

Fans also reported technical issues accessing the pre-sale lottery. FIFA has yet to comment on the complaints or defend its pricing policy.