Is the 2026 World Cup an own goal?

The 2026 World Cup's ticket pricing is under scrutiny, with concerns raised about accessibility for average fans. FIFA's decision to expand the tournament to 48 teams across the USA, Mexico, and Canada hasn't translated to more affordable tickets; in fact, prices have significantly increased compared to previous years. Dynamic pricing strategies further complicate matters, potentially driving up costs based on demand. While FIFA argues that revenues are reinvested into global football development programs, critics contend that the high prices risk alienating loyal fans and eroding the community connection to the sport. The host cities bear the costs of infrastructure, and there's a risk of underutilized venues post-event. Economist Victor Matheson notes that ticket prices have quadrupled even after accounting for inflation.