World Cup 2026: New York, New Jersey investigating ticket pricing amid fans’ outcry

The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey have opened a formal investigation into FIFA’s ticketing system for the 2026 World Cup, issuing subpoenas over complaints involving misleading stadium maps, hidden fees, and rising ticket prices.

Letitia James of New York and Jennifer Davenport of New Jersey say they are seeking detailed information about ticket sales linked to MetLife Stadium, which is expected to host eight matches, including the final.

Their offices, working alongside New York City’s Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, are requesting internal documents to better understand how FIFA managed the ticketing process.

The investigation follows months of frustration from fans across the world. Complaints have focused on changing stadium maps between sales phases, the introduction of a new “Front Category 1” with significantly higher prices after millions of tickets had already been sold, and a general lack of transparency in how seats were allocated.

FIFA initially sold tickets in four categories linked to colour-coded stadium maps. However, those maps reportedly changed over time, leaving some fans with seats that did not match their original expectations.

In April, when tickets were assigned to specific seats, many supporters discovered they had been placed in less desirable sections than they believed they had purchased.

Some fans have described the experience as feeling “misled” or “scammed.” Hospitality packages also added to the confusion, with premium midfield areas being sold for thousands of dollars while earlier maps suggested those zones were part of Category 1 seating.

Officials have since spoken out about the situation.

Davenport criticised FIFA’s approach, saying: “Buying a ticket should be simple. FIFA has turned it into confusion, fake scarcity, and sky-high prices.”

James also commented, “No one should be manipulated into paying excessive amounts. Fans deserve to trust that the tickets they buy are the ones they’ll receive.”

Samuel Levine, commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, said reports of deceptive practices were concerning and promised enforcement action if any violations of consumer protection laws are confirmed.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill has also supported the investigation, stressing that fans should not be exploited as the state prepares to host global visitors.

FIFA has defended its stadium maps, describing them as “indicative” and intended to guide fans rather than show exact seat layouts. The organisation’s terms also state that visual representations may not reflect final stadium configurations.

On pricing, FIFA says ticket costs reflect market conditions in North America and exceptionally high demand, adding that revenue is reinvested into global football development.

FIFA declined to provide further comment on Wednesday.

Ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup have reached higher levels than any previous edition of the tournament. FIFA has adjusted prices multiple times, including after the initial October sales, again in November, after the December draw, and once more during the final sales phase in April.

MetLife Stadium, renamed “New York New Jersey Stadium” for the tournament, was not specifically highlighted in earlier concerns about map changes, but its seating plans did undergo adjustments. Some buyers reportedly benefited, while broader complaints affected multiple venues.

The attorneys general have not given a timeline for the investigation, and FIFA is expected to challenge the subpoenas, meaning responses may take time before the tournament begins on June 11.

The probe represents the strongest scrutiny yet of FIFA’s ticketing system as preparations continue for the biggest World Cup ever staged, with officials in New York and New Jersey pushing for greater transparency and assurances that fans are treated fairly.