California Investigates FIFA Over 2026 World Cup Tickets

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has launched an investigation into FIFA concerning the ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup. The probe was prompted by consumer complaints alleging deceptive attempts to purchase tickets, particularly regarding the categorization of stadium seats.

Fans reported that premium category seats were misrepresented as being in a lower category based on the stadium seat map provided during the sale. Bonta emphasized that consumers expect accurate information when making purchasing decisions and has requested FIFA to provide information regarding any changes to the stadium seat map that could affect fans.

FIFA has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that the ticket sales and the seat map displayed online were accurate. The controversy has attracted significant negative press, especially in light of existing criticisms regarding the affordability of ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, with approximately 3 million tickets reportedly sold across four categories.