During the Qatar 2022 World Cup, the cheapest Category 4 ticket for the opening match cost around $55. For the 2026 edition, that same tier is expected to reach nearly $560 a tenfold increase. This staggering jump effectively makes attending the first match a luxury experience, reserved for those willing to pay premium prices for a seat at football’s grand opening.

In 2022, group stage tickets started at around $11. For 2026, fans will have to pay close to $100 for the same category. This significant increase raises concerns that middle-class supporters the heartbeat of football fandom might struggle to attend multiple matches, changing the atmosphere that has always defined World Cup crowds.

The cheapest final match ticket in 2022 was approximately $206, while in 2026 it is expected to exceed $2,000. This makes the “economy” option for the next World Cup final more expensive than many premium seats in previous tournaments. The shift transforms the final from a fan experience into an elite event accessible mainly to affluent spectators.

For the first time, FIFA has introduced a dynamic pricing system where ticket costs fluctuate based on real-time demand. This means prices can surge as matches attract more interest similar to airline or hotel pricing models. While this approach may maximize profits, it also creates uncertainty for fans who now face the gamble of when to buy their tickets.

With costs skyrocketing across all match categories, attending multiple games may become financially challenging for many fans. Some might opt for less popular matches or early stages to stay within budget. Ultimately, this change risks altering the World Cup’s inclusive spirit transforming it from a global celebration of the people’s game into a more exclusive affair.

The 2026 World Cup may set new records both on and off the pitch, but the sharp rise in ticket prices has already sparked a wave of disappointment among fans. As FIFA experiments with dynamic pricing, supporters worldwide are left hoping that the world’s biggest sporting event remains within reach for those who live and breathe the beautiful game.