2026 World Cup ticket prices soar; Trump calls them too expensive: 'Honestly, I wouldn't buy them'

The upcoming 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is already generating controversy, not over the sport itself, but over the exorbitant ticket prices. As reported by Liberty Times, even former US President Donald Trump has weighed in, calling the prices too high and admitting he wouldn't buy a ticket himself. This criticism from a prominent American figure adds significant weight to the growing backlash against FIFA's pricing strategy. FIFA President Gianni Infantino's defense of "dynamic pricing"—a system that allows prices to fluctuate based on demand—rings hollow to many fans, especially when the cheapest tickets are over $1,100. From a Taiwanese perspective, accustomed to more accessible sporting events, such pricing seems particularly egregious. The report highlights that even the cheapest seats for the opening match and final are astronomically priced, with some resale tickets reaching over $2 million. Trump's comments, while perhaps politically motivated, tap into a genuine concern about the accessibility of major sporting events. He expressed disappointment that ordinary people, particularly his supporters from areas like Queens and Brooklyn, might be priced out, framing it as a missed opportunity for them to experience such a global event. This contrasts sharply with FIFA's justification, which leans heavily on market economics, a concept that often feels detached from the passion of grassroots fans. The lawsuit filed by fan groups against the EU Commission further underscores the international nature of this discontent. While Western media might focus on the economic arguments or Trump's political stance, the core issue for many, including those in Taiwan, is the perceived greed of sporting bodies prioritizing profit over fan experience. The sheer scale of the event, hosted in North America, amplifies these concerns, making it a story that resonates beyond just football enthusiasts.

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I certainly would like to go, but frankly, I wouldn't spend the money.