Source:REUTERS/Jeenah Moon
[Saba Sports News] Since FIFA announced that next year’s World Cup will adopt a dynamic pricing model, fans have expressed significant dissatisfaction, as the previously announced ticket prices are much higher than in past tournaments. The prices for group stage matches not held by the host nation range from $140 to $265, while the final match has prices starting at $4,185 and going up to $8,680, which deviates significantly from the $21 low-price ticket promise made during the bidding process, provoking dissatisfaction among fans and teams.To appease its core fan base, FIFA announced the introduction of low-priced tickets, increasing the proportion of these tickets to 10%-15%, priced at $60. I believe this adjustment, while providing a low-cost viewing option for core fans who follow their teams, reflects an emphasis on this key group for the event’s atmosphere. It also reduces the risk for fans through related refund policies. However, there are significant limitations. The coverage of low-priced tickets is extremely limited, allocated only to specific groups, leaving the vast majority of ordinary fans still facing high ticket costs, making it difficult for them to benefit truly.In the long run, this measure fails to address the fundamental contradiction of World Cup ticket prices being detached from the general public. To genuinely promote the accessibility of football, more substantial adjustments are needed, such as expanding the coverage of low-priced tickets, improving the transparency of distribution mechanisms, and balancing commercial interests with public demand.