Football fans lodge complaint with European Commission over Fifa’s ‘exploitative’ World Cup ticket prices
Fifa has faced backlash in recent months over its ticket prices for this summer’s World Cup
A formal complaint has been lodged with the European Commission regarding Fifa’s controversial World Cup ticket pricing strategy , following months of criticism over the tournament organiser’s approach. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) and Euroconsumers have jointly filed the complaint, citing Fifa’s "aggressive and exploitative ticketing policies" and its adoption of dynamic pricing. Ronan Evain, FSE executive director, stated: "For several months now we have urged Fifa to do right by fans and reconsider its aggressive and exploitative ticketing policies.
“Fifa’s failure to engage in meaningful consultation with stakeholders yet again has left us with no option but to join forces with Euroconsumers in filing this complaint with the European Commission. " England’s travel club allocations for the semi-final and final were undersubscribed (Danny Lawson/PA Wire) The world governing body faced significant backlash over the cost of tickets, particularly for fans participating in national-team travel clubs and loyalty schemes. Initially, the cheapest tickets for the final were priced at over £3,000, while England supporters hoping to follow their team from the opening match to the final faced a minimum spend exceeding £5,000.
While Fifa did introduce some $60 tickets, these constituted only 10 per cent of a team’s allocation per match. Despite the complaints, Fifa reported half a billion ticket requests in its most recent sales window, with its president, Gianni Infantino, describing this as "more than demand – it’s a global statement". However, FSE countered this, adding in its statement on Tuesday: "Fifa point to their unconfirmed sales figures as validation of their unfair ticket practices, while the reality is they leave fans with no other choice – pay up or lose out.
" The impact of the pricing was evident as England’s travel club allocations for the semi-final and final were undersubscribed. Fifa has been contacted for comment. The organisation has previously defended its use of dynamic pricing, noting its common application in North American ticket sales.