FIFA Removed Thousands of World Cup Tickets—and Prices Jumped

Days before the 2026 World Cup, FIFA deleted thousands of unsold tickets from its website without explanation. Ticket prices, which had been falling due to oversupply, suddenly recovered afterward. Fans suspect FIFA gave the tickets to sponsors or intentionally created scarcity to boost prices. The move raises questions about FIFA's control over the secondary market and how it shapes the tournament's image.