President Donald Trump has stirred up a heated debate over World Cup ticket prices, saying he wouldn't pay the $1,000-plus cost to watch the United States' opening match in the 2026 tournament. In an interview with the New York Post published Thursday, Trump expressed surprise at the high prices, adding, "I would certainly like to be there, but I wouldn't pay it either, to be honest with you."
The comments come as FIFA faces growing backlash from US lawmakers and international fan groups over its pricing structure for the tournament, which kicks off in June. Football Supporters Europe has called the costs a "monumental betrayal," especially for fans hoping to attend the first World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Trump, who takes credit for securing the World Cup during his first term, voiced concern that his key supporters—lower-income Americans from places like Queens and Brooklyn—might be priced out. "I would like to be able to have the people that voted for me to be able to go," he said. "If people from Queens and Brooklyn and all of the people that love Donald Trump can't go, I would be disappointed, but, you know, at the same time, it's an amazing success."
The tension highlights a growing rift between FIFA and fans. FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who has a close relationship with Trump, defended the pricing on Tuesday, noting that US laws allow tickets to be resold for thousands above face value. He also revealed that FIFA received over 500 million ticket requests for 2026—a staggering jump from the combined 50 million for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Infantino added that 25 percent of group-stage tickets are priced under $300, aiming to keep some options affordable.
But fan groups aren't convinced. They point to the Qatar World Cup in 2022, where the most expensive final ticket was around $1,600 at face value. For 2026, that same ticket could cost upwards of $11,000—a staggering difference that has many questioning whether the beautiful game is becoming a luxury sport.
For fans looking to show their support without breaking the bank, the debate underscores the importance of finding affordable ways to celebrate the World Cup. Whether you're saving up for a ticket or just planning to cheer from home, the spirit of the game is what truly matters.