The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is already breaking records with ticket prices rising sharply just a day after the first phase of sales began. This adjustment follows the high demand from fans eager to attend the tournament, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a highly profitable World Cup for FIFA.
Ticket Price Hike Explained
FIFA introduced a “variable pricing” model for the 2026 World Cup to adjust ticket costs based on demand. In the first wave of sales, which launched on October 5, 2025, several prices for matches increased before even reaching the second sales window. Fans noticed a sharp rise in prices for popular matches, including the U.S. opener and the highly anticipated Final.
For instance, the price of a Category 1 ticket for the U.S. men’s national team’s second group game rose from $535 (ZAR 10,165) to $565 (ZAR 10,735), while Category 3 tickets climbed from $185 (ZAR 3,515) to $205 (ZAR 3,895). Prices for knockout-stage matches, including the quarterfinals and Round of 16, saw similar increases.
Ticket Breakdown in South African Rand (ZAR)
Here’s how ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup stack up in South African Rand (ZAR):
- Mexico Opener
- Category 1: ZAR 34,675
- Category 2: ZAR 24,510
- Category 3: ZAR 14,155
- Category 4: ZAR 7,030
- Canada Opener
- Category 1: ZAR 33,155
- Category 2: ZAR 23,560
- Category 3: ZAR 13,585
- Category 4: ZAR 6,745
- U.S. Opener
- Category 1: ZAR 51,965
- Category 2: ZAR 36,860
- Category 3: ZAR 21,280
- Category 4: ZAR 10,640
- Group Stage Matches
- Category 1: ZAR 6,555 – ZAR 15,295
- Category 2: ZAR 4,940 – ZAR 11,495
- Category 3: ZAR 2,280 – ZAR 5,320
- Category 4: ZAR 1,140 – ZAR 2,660
- Third Place Match
- Category 1: ZAR 19,000
- Category 2: ZAR 13,585
- Category 3: ZAR 6,840
- Category 4: ZAR 3,135
- Final Match
- Category 1: ZAR 121,030
- Category 2: ZAR 53,010
- Category 3: ZAR 38,570
- Category 4: ZAR 24,510
The Resale Impact
As demand outpaces supply, FIFA also launched a ticket resale platform where fans who purchased tickets early are reselling them at inflated prices. FIFA will take a 15% fee on each resale transaction, further benefiting from the secondary ticket market.
In addition, FIFA has aggressively promoted “Right To Buy” (RTB) tokens, a paid option that allows fans to bypass the lottery system for a chance to buy tickets. These tokens, which cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, do not include the cost of the actual ticket but provide guaranteed access to purchase tickets for specific matches.
What Does This Mean for Fans?
While some fans may be frustrated with the price increases, FIFA’s approach reflects the high demand for tickets to this global sporting event. As the tournament draws nearer, ticket prices may continue to rise, especially for high-demand matches.
For South African fans looking to experience the World Cup, this price hike may act as a stark reminder of the increasing costs associated with attending major international events. Whether it’s the allure of seeing the world’s best teams or the atmosphere of the tournament, securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup will come at a premium.
Check also: How Many Teams Need to Qualify for the Largest 2026 FIFA World Cup Ever?
Despite the backlash against FIFA’s initial prices, the early sales phase shows that the market for 2026 World Cup tickets is stronger than expected. As FIFA adjusts prices to match demand, fans are left with the choice of whether to pay the premium or wait for later sales phases.
If you’re planning to attend, securing your tickets early may be the only way to avoid paying even higher prices in the future.
Are these price increases justified by the high demand, or do you think FIFA should reconsider its pricing strategy to make the World Cup more accessible? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
