FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke to reporters in Mexico City, addressing the controversy over high ticket prices for the upcoming World Cup. Infantino compared the situation to ticket sales across North America, suggesting that the issue was not unique to FIFA.
Ticket Pricing Controversy
Tickets for group-stage games start at $140, with the final outside New York priced at up to $8,680 for regular seats and $73,200 for hospitality seats. Following criticism, FIFA offered $60 tickets through national federations, with 130,000 seats available at this rate. In comparison, the Qatar World Cup had prices ranging from $69 to $1,607. Infantino argued that lower pricing would lead to higher secondary market prices, diverting funds away from football.
The average ticket price for the tournament remains under $500, a figure Infantino claimed aligns with playoff prices for other U.S. sports. Major League Baseball World Series tickets have averaged $350 to $400, while NFL playoff prices range from $230 to $3,300. Despite inquiries from state attorneys general, Infantino expressed confidence in FIFA’s legal position.
Challenges in Organizing
Infantino highlighted the difficulty of securing entry for Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied U.S. access due to unspecified vetting concerns. Infantino acknowledged FIFA’s limitations, stressing the importance of diplomacy and patience in such matters.
FIFA also ensured Iran’s participation in the tournament amidst geopolitical tensions. While the Iranian team relocated its training camp to Mexico, Infantino hailed the achievement as a success. He emphasized the tournament’s global significance, citing cooperation from former President Donald Trump as crucial to the event’s organization in the United States.
Financial Projections and Broadcast Decisions
FIFA is projecting a revenue of $11 billion from the World Cup. Infantino noted that shifting to a pay service model could potentially boost revenue to $30 billion, but emphasized the goal of providing access to billions of global viewers.
This news conference contrasted with Infantino’s previous appearance in Qatar, which involved addressing criticism over human rights. As he seeks another term as FIFA President, Infantino also reserved a moment for the absent French reporter Christophe Gleizes, imprisoned in Algeria. His presidency, ongoing since 2016, could extend until 2031.
AP Sports Writer Ronald Blum contributed reporting from New York.
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