Empty Seats at World Cup Match Renews Concerns over Ticket Prices

Concerns over ticket pricing have resurfaced following a World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech Republic in Guadalajara, which FIFA reported had an attendance of 44,985. Despite the official figure, large sections of empty seats were visible throughout the stadium, prompting renewed criticism of FIFA's commercial strategy for the expanded 48-team tournament.

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ticket prices were on a par with other major sporting events.

While the opening match in Mexico City drew over 80,000 spectators, the unoccupied rows in Guadalajara's 46,000-seat stadium have intensified scrutiny. Fans present at the match attributed the empty seats to high ticket prices, with some criticizing FIFA's pricing model. Groups like Football Supporters Europe (FSE) had previously warned that "extortionate" prices would alienate ordinary fans, estimating that ticket prices have increased fivefold compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, however, defended the ticket pricing structure. He stated on Wednesday that the costs are on par with other major sporting events. Infantino also highlighted strong ticket sales, reporting that FIFA has sold over 6 million tickets and that demand from the Americas has exceeded expectations significantly.

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demand had exceeded expectations by "a factor of 10 or more".

Despite FIFA's assurances and reported high demand, the visible empty seats in Guadalajara have fueled ongoing debate about the accessibility and affordability of attending matches in the expanded World Cup format. The match itself saw South Korea defeat the Czech Republic 2-1 in Group A.

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"extortionate" pricing would exclude ordinary fans.