FIFA announces 2026 World Cup tickets to be $60 due to cost concerns - Philadelphia

FIFA announced $60 ticket levels for the 2026 World Cup amid concerns about availability.Here's what you should know.

PHILADELPHIA (VPVI) - The global demand for World Cup tickets is extraordinary, and the organization reports 20 million requests so far.Amid criticism about affordability, FIFA announced a new level of ticket prices on Tuesday, but many fans wonder if it will make a real difference.

The new tier offers tickets for $60 each for all 104 games, including the final.FIFA says the goal is to help loyal fans follow their team without breaking the bank.

"I think it's great," said Bill Boyle, manager of "The Post" on S. 30th Street in Philadelphia.

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According to FIFA, 50% of each country's ticket allocation will fall into the most affordable categories, 40% at the supporter value level and 10% at the new $60 entry level.The remaining tickets will be split between the Standard and Premier levels.Each participating country will handle the distribution, but details have yet to be announced.

Critics argue that getting cheap tickets is almost impossible.

"I think they're just trying to do public relations," said Cecil Dixon of Chester, Pennsylvania."This is all public relations. I don't think they care about ordinary people."

A fan association, FSE, or European Football Supporters, has called the current price "extortion" and "a monumental betrayal of the World Cup tradition".

"It really shouldn't be about the amount of money you have in your pocket," said Eric Stellato of the city center."It should really be about the passion you have and making your dreams come true."

Six World Cup games will be played at Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia, and excitement is high in the city.

"Having the World Cup here puts us in the international spotlight," Boyle said.

However, concerns remain about how many fans will get $60 tickets through their country's soccer association.

"I want to go to more games," Dixon said, "I'm a big football fan, but I'm not going to pay for nothing."

Lottery tickets are more expensive now until mid-January.