FIFA is facing questions over ticket demand for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup involving the United States men’s national team, following reports that sales have been slower than expected.
An internal planning document dated 10 April, circulated among local organisers in Los Angeles and reported by The Athletic, indicates that 40,934 tickets had been sold for the United States’ opening fixture against Paraguay. The match is scheduled to take place on 12 June at SoFi Stadium.
The figure appears lower than anticipated for a host nation’s opening game, particularly when compared with another group-stage match at the same venue. The fixture between Iran and New Zealand, set for 15 June, had already recorded 50,661 tickets sold.
With SoFi Stadium configured to hold 69,650 spectators for the tournament, the data suggests a noticeable gap in demand for what is typically regarded as one of the most high-profile matches of the competition. However, it remains unclear whether the figures include premium hospitality packages and other non-public ticket allocations.
FIFA initially declined to comment on the reported figures before publication, but later disputed their accuracy. In a statement, a spokesperson said ticket sales for the tournament “remain strong” and added that the internal data cited “does not accurately reflect actual sales to date,” without offering further clarification.
Attention has turned to FIFA’s pricing strategy as a possible explanation for the slower uptake. When tickets were first released in October, the United States versus Paraguay opener was among the most expensive matches of the tournament, with prices surpassed only by the final and one semi-final.
Top-tier Category 1 tickets were priced at $2,730, while Category 2 seats cost $1,940 and Category 3 tickets were set at $1,120.
Unlike many other fixtures, where prices have risen amid what FIFA has described as “unprecedented” demand, ticket prices for this match have remained unchanged. Analysts suggest this could indicate that sales have not met expectations.
In contrast, other matches have seen increasing demand reflected in higher prices. The opening match involving Mexico, for example, has experienced steady price increases, pointing to stronger interest from supporters.
The apparent lack of demand for a host nation’s opening match has surprised some observers. Such fixtures are traditionally among the most sought-after, drawing attention from both domestic fans and international audiences.
The continued availability of tickets at their original high prices may suggest that some supporters are reluctant to pay what they consider excessive costs, even in a major market such as Los Angeles.
If the trend is confirmed, it could have broader implications for organisers of the expanded 2026 tournament, which will feature 48 teams and be held across multiple host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
It may also prompt FIFA to reconsider its approach to ticket pricing, as it seeks to balance revenue generation with accessibility and ensure full stadiums.
For now, while FIFA insists overall demand remains strong, the situation in Los Angeles highlights potential challenges facing even the world’s most popular sporting event.
