Former US President Donald Trump has said he was surprised to learn about the high cost of tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, after reports that some seats for a United States match are being sold for more than $1,000.
Speaking to the New York Post, Mr Trump reacted to prices linked to the upcoming fixture between the United States and Paraguay, which is due to take place shortly after the tournament begins next year.
The 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, is expected to attract millions of supporters from around the world. However, the cost of attending some matches has already become a topic of discussion among fans.
Mr Trump said he had not realised tickets had reached such levels and suggested the prices could prevent many ordinary supporters from attending games.
“I wasn’t aware of that amount. (…) I’d like to be there, but honestly, I wouldn’t pay that. I hope the people who voted for me get a chance to go,” the former president said.
The comments came just over a month before the start of the tournament, with anticipation continuing to build ahead of what is expected to be one of the largest World Cups ever staged.
Ticket demand for the competition has been high, particularly for matches involving the host nation, contributing to rising resale prices in some cases. The United States men’s national team is expected to draw significant support during the tournament, especially as the country prepares to host the majority of the matches.
Alongside discussions over ticket prices, attention has also turned to new features planned for the tournament. Reports circulating on social media indicate that FIFA intends to introduce a special badge for players making their first appearance at a World Cup finals.
According to the reports, players participating in the competition for the first time would wear a unique patch on their shirts during matches. The feature has been described online as a “never-before-seen” addition for the tournament.
The proposal has generated discussion among football supporters online, with some praising the idea as a way to celebrate players reaching the biggest stage in international football.
The 2026 tournament will mark the first World Cup to feature an expanded format, with more teams and matches than in previous editions. Organisers expect the event to become one of the most watched sporting competitions in history.
Despite the excitement surrounding the tournament, concerns over affordability may continue as fans compete for tickets to some of the most sought-after fixtures.
Mr Trump’s remarks are likely to add to the debate over whether major sporting events are becoming increasingly inaccessible to ordinary supporters because of rising costs.
The United States, which will host the bulk of the tournament’s matches, has already seen strong interest from domestic and international fans hoping to secure seats for the competition.
