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Authorities in New York and New Jersey have officially launched an investigation into FIFA’s ticket sales practices for the 2026 World Cup after growing complaints from fans over rising prices and disputed seating assignments.
The attorneys general of both states have jointly issued subpoenas to FIFA as part of the investigation, which focuses on matches scheduled at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, officially renamed New York New Jersey Stadium during the tournament.
This specifically concerns the eight World Cup matches taking place at the stadium, including the final on July 19.
At the center of the investigation are accusations that FIFA artificially inflated ticket prices while also misleading some fans about seat locations.
According to officials, ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup have increased sharply compared to previous editions of the tournament. Reports claim FIFA raised prices across more than 90 matches, with the 3 main ticket categories increasing by an average of 34% between October 2025 and April 2026.
Fans have also complained about problems with seating categories. Some supporters say they paid for premium “Category 1” seats close to the pitch but were later assigned seats further back in “Category 2” sections instead.
Others allege FIFA changed stadium maps and ticket zones after purchases had already been completed, creating confusion and frustration among buyers.
The investigation will now seek internal FIFA documents explaining how ticket prices were determined and how seats were assigned to supporters.
New Jersey Attorney General officials said consumers deserve transparency, especially for an event as important and expensive as the World Cup.
Authorities are also encouraging New Jersey residents who believe they did not receive the seats they originally paid for to submit formal complaints through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs website.
The controversy comes only 2 weeks before the start of the expanded 48-team World Cup.
MetLife Stadium is expected to host some of the tournament’s biggest matches, including games involving major national teams and the World Cup final itself.
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