NY, NJ Attorneys General Probe FIFA Ticketing for 2026 Cup

The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey have launched an investigation into FIFA's ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup, issuing subpoenas to the global football governing body for information. The probe, announced Wednesday, focuses on eight matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, including the tournament final on July 19.

Officials said the investigation follows numerous complaints from fans who allege they were misled about the location of seats they purchased and that FIFA's sales practices contributed to soaring prices. New York Attorney General Letitia James and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport stated that prices for the 2026 matches have far exceeded those for any previous World Cup tournament.

In a joint statement, Davenport accused FIFA of turning the ticket-buying process into a gauntlet of confusion, fake scarcity, and impossibly high prices, all at the expense of consumers. James echoed the sentiment, stating that no one should be manipulated into paying sky-high prices and that fans should be able to trust that the tickets they purchase will be the ones they receive.

A central issue involves seat assignments. According...