Mayor of New York Zohran Mamdani says the World Cup is generating “more than enough” revenue and supporters should not have to pay increased prices, Yankee Scores reports.
The Multi-Thousand Dollar Ticket
The tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada is the most expensive to attend, with many first-round games priced between $350 and $5,000 (£260 to £3,735).
Fans have also seen rising costs for hotels and transport. Prices for trains and buses to World Cup matches at New York New Jersey Stadium were reduced after protests from fans but remain 10 times the normal cost.
Mamdani, who became mayor of New York in January, says Fifa could have made the tournament accessible. Football’s world governing body is expected to make almost $9bn from the tournament, more than the Paris 2024 Olympics.
“New Jersey transport has tickets to get to the stadium that are nearly $100. It’s a decision they’ve made, and I also empathise that they had to make that decision so they aren’t running a loss.
The Host City Agreement Friction
“Part of that is a reflection of the host city agreement with Fifa. I think there is more than enough generated not just at this World Cup but at every World Cup, so those costs are covered, and fans are not the ones having to bridge that deficit.”
BBC Sport revealed that England supporters would expend about £6,500 on spectating all three matches in the group stage.
“When you saw those ticket prices, there was a fear for how everyone would be able to be a part of this,” he said.
“I’m proud we secured 1,000 tickets at $50 for each game and we have fan fests, one in each borough for free.
“When I came into office, they were going to charge for them, and I’m glad they took away that cost.
“We want this to be a moment where tourists and New Yorkers alike can rediscover this city. We have 900 bars and restaurants that have signed up for our $26 World Cup meal deal. We want affordability and everyone to be a part of this tournament.
“It’s part of fighting back against the commodification of sports, the insistence it becomes yet another luxury product.”
