FIFA’s 2026 World Cup ticket revenue exceeds initial forecasts

FIFA has generated around $5 billion from ticket sales and hospitality packages for the 2026 World Cup, according to a report by the British newspaper The Times.

The figure significantly exceeds FIFA’s initial forecast of $3.3 billion and is approximately five times higher than the $929 million in revenue generated from these sources at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

The increase in the number of matches, from 64 in Qatar to 104 in the 2026 edition, has contributed to the rise in revenue. However, according to the report, higher ticket prices and the introduction of dynamic pricing, under which prices fluctuate according to demand, have also played a significant role.

FIFA has also received 30% of the value of every ticket resold on the secondary market through its official resale platform.

The pricing policy has drawn criticism from fan organizations. Football Supporters Europe has described the prices as a “monumental betrayal” of supporters, who must also cover travel and accommodation costs across the three host countries: the United States, Canada and Mexico.

FIFA has not confirmed the $5 billion figure. In a statement to The Times, the organization said its final revenue figures would be published in its next annual report, once the auditing process has been completed.

FIFA has stated that, out of a total of 6.81 million tickets, more than 100,000 have been made available at $60 each, including more than 1,000 tickets for the final.

The governing body has emphasized that revenue from the tournament will help fund its 211 member associations. It has also proposed a solidarity program aimed at doubling planned funding for the 2027–2030 period to $6.35 billion.

According to the report, FIFA’s total revenue from the 2026 World Cup could reach $15 billion.

Photo: FIFA