New York and New Jersey subpoena Fifa over ‘manipulated’ World Cup ticketing

Authorities in New York and New Jersey have issued subpoenas to FIFA as part of an investigation into alleged manipulation of ticketing practices for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. New York Attorney General Letitia James and New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport announced the probe, focusing on concerns over inflated ticket prices and fans reportedly being misled about seat locations for matches, particularly those scheduled at MetLife Stadium.

The investigation will examine claims that FIFA engaged in "fake scarcity" by withholding ticket blocks to drive up demand and prices. Officials are also scrutinizing FIFA's use of "variable pricing" and phased ticket releases, which reportedly contributed to a significant increase in costs, with some reports indicating an average rise of 34% for main ticket categories between October 2025 and April 2026. Consumers have complained about paying for high-category seats only to receive less desirable locations, sometimes even in the last row of stadiums. FIFA has declined to comment on the ongoing investigation.