FIFA President Gianni Infantino addresses criticism over the pricing and logistics surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup, arguing that FIFA cannot control every factor affecting fan costs and travel. Speaking in the lead-up to the tournament opener, Infantino says the average ticket price is below USD 500 and that the pricing is broadly comparable to ticketing costs seen in other North American sports seasons and playoffs. He responds to complaints by telling critics to “chill,” while maintaining that FIFA’s pricing approach reflects the wider market environment in the United States and North America.
Infantino also comments on a separate controversy involving US entry for a referee, saying FIFA does not have authority over US visa decisions. He adds that FIFA is working to support the entry of teams, specifically mentioning efforts related to Iran’s national team. Across outlets, the common theme is Infantino’s position that criticism about ticket affordability should be evaluated in the context of the local market, and that some travel and entry issues fall outside FIFA’s direct control.
