The "New York Mayor" successfully negotiated with FIFA to provide World Cup tickets at $50 each for local residents.
Sohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City, announced good news for football fans in New York after negotiating with FIFA to secure 1,000 special-priced World Cup 2026 tickets at only 50 U.S. dollars each (about 1,800 baht) exclusively for New Yorkers, amid criticism that World Cup ticket prices have surged beyond the reach of average fans.
Reports state that these special-priced tickets will grant access to seven matches at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, one of the main venues for the 2026 World Cup. New Yorkers can register for a lottery to win purchasing rights, and winners will also receive free shuttle service to and from the stadium.
Previously, Mamdani strongly criticized FIFA's ticketing policy, especially the demand-based pricing system, which caused prices for some matches to multiply several times, leading to perceptions that it favors wealthier individuals over regular fans.
Sources reveal that the New York mayor raised this issue in discussions with FIFA President Gianni Infantino earlier this year, advocating that local residents hosting the tournament should have greater access to the World Cup, resulting in the agreement to offer tickets at reduced prices this time.
Although 1,000 tickets is a small number compared to demand from many fans, this initiative marks the first time a U.S. World Cup host city has provided assistance to local residents to access matches at more affordable prices, amid ongoing criticism over rising ticket and travel costs.