FIFA's Ticket Pricing Under Fire Amid World Cup Attendance Controversy

FIFA faces criticism for high ticket prices during the expanded 48-team World Cup. Despite selling over 6 million tickets, empty seats at the South Korea vs. Czech Republic match raised concerns about accessibility and demand. Critics argue that costs exclude ordinary fans, challenging FIFA's commercial strategy.

The attendance at Thursday's World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech Republic was recorded at 44,985, yet the sight of empty seats in Guadalajara's stadium has intensified scrutiny over FIFA's pricing strategy.

Despite over 80,000 fans attending the opening match in Mexico City, the unfilled rows in a football-enthusiastic city like Guadalajara have fueled criticism of the 48-team tournament's commercial strategy. High ticket prices were singled out by attending fans as a barrier to accessing this global event.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the prices, arguing they align with other major sports events. Yet, calls from groups like Football Supporters Europe highlight that ticket costs for this World Cup are five times higher than in 2022, thinning attendance to fewer ordinary fans despite record sales.