Thousands of tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been unexpectedly withdrawn just days before the tournament. This event highlighted the already evident lower demand among soccer fans.
As reported by Ticketdata.com, approximately 74,000 tickets were initially available directly through the organization. By Saturday, the number fell drastically to 44,000 and then dropped under 30,000, where it currently remains. FIFA has not provided a reason for this sharp decline. Ticketdata.com attributes it to an unspecified “sudden inventory removal.”
Fans have speculated online that tickets could have been allocated to sponsors or other parties. Others suggest this might be an attempt to create artificial scarcity to boost demand.
Newsweek reached out to FIFA through its Switzerland-based headquarters on Monday.
Resale ticket prices are beginning to recover after weeks of downturn. Local businesses in host cities had warned earlier of waning interest in this year’s competition.
The subdued interest is partly due to FIFA’s pricing strategy for the 2026 tournament. Ticket prices have risen significantly compared to previous tournaments. This increase has sparked criticism from fans and some host state politicians.
This story is ongoing. More updates will follow as they become available.