FIFA has come under heavy criticism after ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup final surged to over Rs 10 lakh in the latest sales phase, sparking widespread backlash among fans.

The tournament, scheduled to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has seen rising ticket costs amid FIFA’s dynamic pricing model. Premium tickets for the final have reportedly climbed to $10,990, up from around $8,700 in an earlier phase, raising concerns over affordability for regular supporters.

Fans also voiced frustration over the ticketing process, citing long virtual queues, limited availability, and technical glitches during sales. Many took to social media to describe the experience as chaotic, with some claiming they were unable to complete purchases despite waiting for extended periods.

Critics have argued that the steep pricing and system issues risk alienating core football supporters, with accusations that commercial interests are being prioritised over fan accessibility. Industry observers note that aggressive dynamic pricing can impact fan turnout and match atmosphere, while experts stress the need to balance revenue with inclusivity. FIFA, however, has maintained that ticket sales are structured in phases and categories to manage global demand for the tournament.