FIFA encountered the embarrassing sight of numerous unoccupied seats during the second match of the World Cup, with fans attributing the issue to exorbitant ticket prices. President Gianni Infantino was present at Estadio Akron in Guadalajara, Mexico, where South Korea triumphed 2-1 over Czechia. Television cameras captured extensive sections of empty seats, which were broadcasted globally to football enthusiasts.
The announced attendance of 44,985 fell just 679 short of the 45,664 capacity, despite numerous vacant seats throughout the stadium, not solely in the priciest areas. Criticism was directed at FIFA for its ticket pricing strategy, which was perceived as inflating prices and deceiving fans. A London-based England supporter, Garford Beck, highlighted the issue, expressing little surprise at the unoccupied seats, especially given the extreme ticket costs.
Fans vented their frustration on social media platforms, expressing disappointment at the significant number of empty seats and criticizing FIFA for their pricing decisions. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) noted a substantial increase in ticket prices compared to the previous World Cup, causing local and international fans to be priced out of attending the event. Online resale platforms were flooded with listings as fans sought to sell tickets due to escalating travel and accommodation expenses.
The controversy over ticket pricing coincided with violence during the tournament’s opening match, where protesters clashed with authorities outside Estadio Azteca. Despite the unrest, Infantino defended FIFA’s pricing model, emphasizing the unprecedented demand for tickets. However, concerns were raised by Football Supporters Europe, filing a complaint with the European Commission against FIFA for excluding regular fans with high ticket prices.
High-profile figures, including Donald Trump, criticized the exorbitant World Cup ticket prices, with resale sites flooded with tickets as FIFA attempted to fill empty seats. The ‘VIP’ sections closest to the pitch had significant unoccupied areas, with tickets priced at around $400. The escalating prices led to public outcry, with fans denouncing FIFA’s pricing policies and the unattainability of attending matches due to the financial burden. FIFA defended its pricing strategy, citing similarities to practices in the United States and emphasizing that profits were reinvested back into the sport.