New York and New Jersey Attorneys General have launched a joint investigation into FIFA's World Cup ticket pricing and seating practices, subpoenaing documents amid allegations that fans were misled about seat locations and faced exorbitant prices, with one fan's tickets being switched to less desirable seats after purchase.
New York Attorney General Letitia James and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport have jointly announced an investigation into FIFA's ticketing practices for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, specifically focusing on matches at New Jersey’s MetLife stadium. They have subpoenaed FIFA, citing concerns that fans may have been misled about seat locations and that FIFA's public statements and ticket releases contributed to soaring prices. The investigation will scrutinize FIFA’s ticketing process and seat maps, which are alleged to have been changed after tickets were sold. Initially, the stadium was divided into four zones, but after sales began, FIFA reportedly created 'new zones' and added front sections, leading to complaints that buyers of tickets for the original better zones were excluded and reassigned to less desirable seats, including those far from the field or behind goals. The subpoena seeks information on ticket allocation to participating members, match-specific allocations, and the number of tickets per category. Face-value prices for US group matches ranged from $60 to over $600, with final tickets reaching up to $10,990 and resale prices on platforms soaring to $2 million. New Jersey AG Davenport criticized FIFA for turning ticket buying into a 'gauntlet of confusion, fake scarcity, and impossibly high prices,' while New York AG James emphasized the right of New Yorkers to 'a fair shot at affordable tickets' and trust in their purchases. A fan, Brett Prodzinksi, recounted purchasing desirable tickets for $515 each in Seattle, only to receive a confirmation email for seats in a completely different, less desirable location. FIFA declined to comment on the subpoena but previously stated its pricing strategy reflects market demand. California Attorney General Rob Bonta also previously requested information from FIFA to assess potential violations of state law. The 2026 World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with MetLife stadium hosting eight matches, including the final.
