Why are World Cup tickets so expensive?

As the world gears up for the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a staggering reality is coming into focus: this will be the most expensive World Cup in history. With a massive $14 billion price tag, the 2026 tournament is projected to surpass the costs of previous World Cups, including the 2018 tournament in Russia and the 2022 event in Qatar. The hefty price tag is largely due to the unprecedented scale of the event, which will feature 48 teams competing across 16 host cities. As the tournament's organizers scramble to meet the demands of this massive undertaking, questions are being raised about the financial sustainability and potential long-term impact on the host countries.

 The 2026 World Cup is not only the biggest World Cup in history. It’s the most expensive.