Trump Says He Wouldn't Pay $1,000 to Watch US at World Cup

President Donald Trump has voiced strong criticism of FIFA's exorbitant ticket pricing for the 2026 World Cup, declaring he would not pay over $1,000 for the United States' opening match. Speaking to the New York Post, the billionaire businessman echoed concerns raised by US lawmakers and international fan groups, who have decried FIFA's pricing structure as a "monumental betrayal."

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I did not know that number... I would certainly like to be there, but I wouldn’t pay it either, to be honest with you.

Trump's primary concern appears to be the accessibility of the tournament for average Americans, particularly his voter base. He emphasized his desire for "the people that voted for me" to be able to attend, suggesting that high ticket costs could effectively exclude them. This stance aligns with his populist appeal, positioning him as a champion for the common citizen against perceived corporate excess.

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If people from Queens and Brooklyn and all of the people that love Donald Trump can’t go, I would be disappointed, but, you know, at the same time, it’s an amazing success.

While Trump takes credit for helping secure the World Cup for the United States, his current critique places him at odds with FIFA, despite his reported close relationship with President Gianni Infantino. FIFA has defended its pricing, citing massive demand and US resale laws. However, the stark contrast between the $11,000 final ticket price for 2026 and the $1,600 for the 2022 Qatar World Cup final fuels the controversy, suggesting a significant shift in FIFA's approach to fan accessibility.

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I would like to be able to have the people that voted for me to be able to go.