US President Donald Trump has weighed in on the controversy surrounding ticket prices for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting he was surprised by the cost and questioning whether regular American fans can afford to attend the tournament being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Speaking to reporters, Trump revealed he was unaware of the specific pricing figures but expressed clear reservations about the steep costs. The president stated plainly that he himself would not be willing to pay such amounts, even though he would personally like to attend matches during the tournament.
FIFA has faced significant backlash over its pricing strategy for the American market. The governing body set minimum ticket prices for certain matches at eye-watering levels, with the opening fixture between the United States and Paraguay carrying a lowest available price tag of $1,120. This figure drew widespread criticism from fans and media commentators alike.
Trump specifically voiced concern about his own supporters being shut out of the event. He pointed to fans from neighborhoods like Queens and Brooklyn — areas where he maintains strong political support — and said he would be disappointed if those who voted for him could not afford to experience the World Cup firsthand. The president emphasized his desire for everyday Americans to have access to the tournament.
Despite his criticism of the pricing, Trump acknowledged the commercial success of the ticket sales program. He noted that sales have been extraordinarily strong, breaking all previous records in the process. The president described the demand as unprecedented, suggesting nothing comparable had ever been seen before in the history of World Cup ticket distribution.
The tension between accessibility and commercial ambition remains a central talking point as the 2026 World Cup approaches. While FIFA celebrates record-breaking revenue from ticket sales, the question of whether average fans — particularly those from working-class communities — can participate in the global sporting event continues to generate heated debate across the host nations.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.