NJ, NY launch FIFA World Cup ticket sales probe

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The basics:

• NJ and NY launch investigation into FIFA World Cup ticket sales
• Probe focuses on pricing, seat assignment complaints
• Officials cite concerns over ‘Front Category’ tickets
• Investigation includes 2026 World Cup matches in New Jersey

New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport and New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a joint investigation into FIFA’s ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup Wednesday. The officials cite concerns that fans may have been misled about seat locations and subjected to rapidly escalating ticket prices.

The attorneys general issued subpoenas to FIFA seeking information on ticket sales practices. In particular, they focus on the eight World Cup matches coming to New Jersey, including the World Cup Final July 19.

Davenport sharply criticized the governing body’s handling of ticket sales.

“Being honest about ticket sales is not complicated. But FIFA has turned buying a ticket to the World Cup into a gauntlet of confusion, fake scarcity, and impossibly high prices – all at the expense of consumers and hardworking New Jerseyans,” said Davenport. “We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation of FIFA’s conduct, and we are proud to stand together with Attorney General James in protecting our consumers.

It’s an honor to host the World Cup, but the event is not an invitation to exploit our residents and visitors.
—New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport

“It’s an honor to host the World Cup, but the event is not an invitation to exploit our residents and visitors.”

Gov. Mikie Sherrill offered her support for the move. “New Jersey is excited to host the World Cup and welcome fans from across the globe. But no one should be allowed to exploit New Jersey fans or those coming to our state,” she said. “I applaud Attorneys General Davenport and James for standing up on behalf of consumers and investigating whether they have been misled.”

Switching seats

The investigation centers on complaints from fans who said FIFA altered its seating structure after initial ticket sales began.

Originally, FIFA divided stadiums into four zones – Categories 1 through 4, with Category 1 representing the best seats. However, the organization later introduced premium “Front Categories 1 through 4.”

That move carved out the most desirable seats within each section with the organization selling them at significantly higher prices.

James said consumers deserve transparency and fair pricing.

“New Yorkers have been waiting years for the World Cup to come to their backyard, and they deserve a fair shot at affordable tickets. No one should be manipulated into paying sky-high prices for seats, and fans should be able to trust that the tickets they purchase will be the ones they receive.

“I thank Attorney General Davenport for joining this effort to get answers from FIFA and protect our states’ consumers,” James added.

According to the attorneys general, fans who purchased tickets before the introduction of the new “Front Category” system allegedly later received assignments for less desirable seats. New locations include ones farther from the field or behind goals. Officials also said some fans reported paying for Category 1 seats, but ultimately received seats in Category 2 areas.

Rising prices

Additionally, the probe will examine FIFA’s use of “variable pricing,” which adjusts ticket prices based on demand.

According to press reports cited in the announcement, FIFA increased ticket prices for more than 90 of the tournament’s 104 matches between October 2025 and April 2026. As a result, prices in the three primary ticket categories rose an average of 34%.

The attorneys general said the investigation will examine whether FIFA’s phased ticket releases, public messaging, and other actions contributed to inflated prices and consumer confusion.

FIFA declined to comment about the investigation.

Public officials encourage New Jersey residents who believe they did not receive the World Cup tickets they paid for to file complaints with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.