President Donald Trump recently stated that the 2026 World Cup is the most successful in history, citing high ticket sales. However, fact-checkers are questioning his claim, pointing out that the tournament’s expanded format and dynamic pricing may be contributing factors.

Expanded Format and Dynamic Pricing

The 2026 World Cup features 48 teams and 104 games, a significant increase from previous tournaments. Additionally, FIFA has implemented dynamic pricing, which means that ticket prices increase as demand rises. This has led to concerns that ordinary fans are being priced out of the tournament.

Ed Farnsworth, communications director for the Society for American Soccer History, notes that the tournament’s growth is significant, but comparing ticket sales from one World Cup to another is not a straightforward task. Leander Schaerlaeckens, a soccer columnist, agrees, stating that the increased number of games and tickets available makes it difficult to compare sales.

Ticket Sales and Pricing Controversies

While FIFA reports that over 6 million tickets have been sold, many matches were not sold out as of June 12. The existing ticket sales have also been marred by pricing controversies, with some tickets selling for thousands of dollars. Consumers and lawmakers have expressed outrage, with some filing formal complaints and launching investigations.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the ticket prices, but the organization has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.

Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.