The Football Association is set to formally raise concerns with FIFA over the cost of tickets for the 2026 World Cup, following growing frustration among England supporters worried they may be priced out of the tournament.
Fans have voiced anger over early indications that ticket prices for the expanded World Cup — which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico — could be significantly higher than previous editions. Supporters’ groups say the rising costs risk turning football’s biggest tournament into an event only accessible to wealthier fans.
The FA confirmed it plans to reflect these concerns directly to FIFA, stressing the importance of affordability and fair access for travelling supporters. Officials are understood to be particularly worried about the impact on loyal fans who regularly follow England abroad but may struggle with soaring ticket prices alongside accommodation and travel costs.
An FA spokesperson said the organisation was “listening carefully to supporters” and recognised that cost remains a major barrier. “England fans play a huge role in creating the atmosphere at major tournaments,” the spokesperson said. “It’s important that their voices are heard.”
The 2026 World Cup will be the largest in the competition’s history, featuring 48 teams and matches spread across multiple cities. While FIFA has argued that the scale of the event brings higher operational costs, critics say supporters should not shoulder the financial burden.
Supporter groups have warned that high prices could undermine the spirit of the tournament. “Fans are the lifeblood of football,” one England supporters’ representative said. “If ordinary supporters can’t afford to attend, the World Cup risks losing what makes it special.”
Ticket pricing has long been a sensitive issue in international football. At recent tournaments, supporters have complained of rising costs and complex ticketing systems, with some fans paying hundreds of pounds for single matches.
The FA’s intervention reflects broader concern across European football associations, many of which are facing similar pressure from fans. While the FA does not control ticket pricing, its role as a member association allows it to lobby FIFA on behalf of supporters.
FIFA has yet to confirm final ticket prices for the 2026 tournament, though details are expected to be released next year. In the meantime, the FA says it will continue discussions to ensure fan interests are represented.
For England supporters dreaming of following their team on the world’s biggest stage, the hope is that football’s governing bodies can strike a balance between commercial realities and keeping the game accessible.
As one fan put it: “The World Cup should be about football, not bank balances.”
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