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Coach Pochettino Blames FIFA for Skyrocketing World Cup Ticket Prices

2/2/2026

26 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Mauricio Pochettino, U.S. men's national soccer coach, says it is not his or the team's responsibility to evaluate ticket prices.
He added that Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) should be held accountable for pricing decisions.
Weah criticized prices up to $8,680 and may keep fans from attending.
The 2026 World Cup will take place June 11 to July 19 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

History

Historical Context

The 1994 FIFA World Cup in the United States was the first hosted by the country, generating over $100 million in ticket sales. As the 2026 tournament approaches, ticket prices have surged, with some reaching $8,680, raising concerns about accessibility. This reflects ongoing debates about affordability and inclusivity in major sporting events, echoing past discussions on fan engagement and attendance.

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Story summary

Mauricio Pochettino, U.S. men's national soccer coach, says it is not his or the team's responsibility to evaluate ticket prices.
He added that Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) should be held accountable for pricing decisions.
Weah criticized prices up to $8,680 and may keep fans from attending.
The 2026 World Cup will take place June 11 to July 19 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

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