FIFA’s Gianni Infantino Defends World Cup Ticket Prices and Responds to Referee Entry Controversy

FIFA President Gianni Infantino used the official launch press conference for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to defend the tournament’s ticket pricing structure and respond to concerns surrounding the reported refusal of entry into the United States for a World Cup referee.

The expanded 48-team tournament is set to begin on Thursday and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Ahead of kick-off, the competition has already faced several challenges and public debates, including earlier uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation amid tensions between Tehran and Washington, and questions over travel and access procedures.

One of the latest controversies involved Somali referee Omar Artan, who was reportedly denied entry to the United States after allegations by the US administration regarding links to individuals under security scrutiny.

Addressing the issue during Wednesday’s press conference, Infantino urged observers not to overreact and stressed that FIFA continues to work through issues as they arise.

“People should chill, relax.”

Infantino added that football’s governing body remains focused on ensuring the smooth delivery of the tournament.

Infantino Defends World Cup Ticket Pricing

The FIFA president also addressed criticism surrounding the cost of attending matches.

FIFA initially released tickets from $140 for the 104-match tournament, while premium seating for the final in New Jersey rose significantly during later sales phases.

Following criticism from supporters, a limited allocation of lower-cost tickets priced at $60 was later made available to national football associations for distribution to regular supporters.

Infantino defended the pricing strategy and argued that comparisons with other major sporting events in North America were appropriate.

“If we are doing something wrong, everyone in North America is doing something wrong.”

He further argued that average ticket pricing remained competitive when viewed against other major US sporting events during play-off periods.

Infantino also stated that FIFA was not concerned by reported investigations involving attorneys general in California, New Jersey, New York and Texas.

FIFA Distances Itself from Secondary Market Pricing

Responding to concerns over sharply increased resale values, Infantino said FIFA does not control pricing on secondary ticket markets.

He pointed to demand surrounding other major American sporting events as evidence that resale inflation is not unique to football.

“We are very relaxed about it because, before starting to sell 6.5 million or 7 million tickets, we checked what we do with the best lawyers, the best experts.

We welcome every investigation.”

FIFA Admits Limits Over Government Decisions

Infantino also acknowledged that FIFA does not have authority over immigration or border decisions made by host nations.

Speaking about the situation involving referee Omar Artan, he said:

“We are not the kings of the world.”

As the World Cup prepares to begin across North America, FIFA continues to face close scrutiny both on and off the pitch, with organisers aiming to keep attention focused on the football once the tournament gets underway.