2026 World Cup's ticket prices divide fans by wealth

FIFA's 2026 World Cup pricing system splits the global fan base along income lines. Mexico City group-stage seats hit $759 on resale markets—unaffordable for most Mexican households where average income is a fraction of U.S. earnings. High prices have already dampened bookings in American host cities. The cost gap, from $11.50 for qualifiers to $8,680 for the final, shows FIFA prioritizing revenue over accessibility—contradicting its promise of worldwide unity.