The investigation will examine whether FIFA’s ticket release strategy and public messaging played a role in driving up prices for supporters.
FIFA is now under investigation in the United States over its ticketing procedures for the 2026 World Cup.
Attorneys general from New York and New Jersey have requested explanations from football’s governing body following accusations that fans were subjected to “artificial price inflation” and misleading information during the ticket sales process.
A subpoena has reportedly been issued ordering FIFA to hand over documents and details amid claims that supporters may have been deceived about seat placements. Officials are also examining whether FIFA’s public announcements and phased ticket releases contributed to soaring prices.
New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and New York Attorney General Letitia James are specifically seeking information regarding ticket sales for the eight World Cup matches set to take place in New Jersey. These fixtures include England’s group-stage clash with Panama on 27 June and the World Cup final on 19 July.
Davenport said:
“Transparency in ticket sales should not be difficult.
“Instead, FIFA has turned the process of buying World Cup tickets into a maze of confusion, manufactured scarcity, and excessively high prices — all at the expense of consumers and hardworking residents of New Jersey.
“We are fully committed to carrying out a comprehensive investigation into FIFA’s actions, and we are proud to work alongside Attorney General James to defend consumers in our states.
“Hosting the World Cup is a privilege, but it should never become an excuse to take advantage of residents and visitors.”
Fans have also claimed they were misled over seating arrangements, particularly after FIFA introduced more expensive ‘front’ category tickets following the initial phase of sales.
In addition, variable pricing systems linked to demand allegedly enabled FIFA to increase ticket costs for around 90 of the tournament’s 104 matches by an average of 34 percent.
Investigators will now assess whether the timing of ticket releases and FIFA’s public communication influenced those price increases.
James added:
“New Yorkers have waited years for the World Cup to arrive on their doorstep, and they deserve a fair opportunity to purchase affordable tickets.
“Supporters should not be pressured into paying outrageous prices, and they should be confident that the seats they buy are exactly what they receive.
“I appreciate Attorney General Davenport for joining this effort to seek answers from FIFA and safeguard consumers across our states.”
Residents of New Jersey who paid for World Cup tickets but have not received them have been encouraged to submit complaints through the Division of Consumer Affairs website.
