about 1,000 tickets have been allocated for New York residents.
NEW YORK: New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has announced a limited $50 ticket scheme for the FIFA World Cup following public criticism over high ticket prices.
The initiative is aimed at making matches more affordable for local residents.
According to international media reports, about 1,000 tickets have been allocated for New York residents for selected group-stage and knockout matches, though the final is not included in the offer.
1,000 World Cup tickets. $50 each. All for New Yorkers.
We fought hard to make the people’s game available to the people — and won.
Let the summer of soccer begin. pic.twitter.com/CakNsxtF6b
— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) May 21, 2026
Officials said the tickets will be distributed through a lottery system to ensure transparency.
Around 150 seats per match will be reserved under the scheme, and successful applicants will be allowed to purchase up to two tickets each. Transport facilities to and from venues will also be included.
The mayor said the plan is intended to give local residents better access to the tournament and reduce exclusion caused by rising prices, adding that major sporting events should not be limited to wealthy spectators.
The announcement comes amid continued criticism of FIFA’s dynamic pricing system and calls for broader affordability measures for fans.
More read, Severe heat may disrupt matches at 2026 FIFA World Cup
Earlier, Global football players’ union FIFPRO has once again expressed concerns over extreme heat risks during the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
According to a new report by climate research group World Weather Attribution, nearly one-quarter of the tournament’s matches could be played in conditions where temperatures may pose serious risks to players and spectators.
The report warned that at least five matches in the expanded 104-game tournament could face weather conditions severe enough to warrant postponement recommendations.
