President Donald Trump has joined soccer fans in calling out the soaring ticket prices for USMNT matches at the 2026 World Cup. With the tournament now only weeks away, frustration has been building over how expensive it has become to watch the U.S. team play on home soil.
Some tickets have reportedly reached eye-watering prices, leaving fans questioning whether the event is being priced out of reach for ordinary supporters. Trump added to that criticism with a blunt response of his own, making it clear he understands why fans are unhappy.
Trump’s statement seemed to resonate with fans who did not hold back in the comments section of the post by the Athletic on X.
One fan said, “You know it’s bad when even the Billionaire wouldn’t pay that ridiculous price tag FIFA set.”
Another fan added, “World’s gone mad, I’m agreeing with Donnie.”
Urging FIFA to take action a fan said, “do something @FIFAcom @Ticketmaster your greed is leading to what was supposed to be the most hyped World Cup to what will probably be the least attended World Cup in history”
Another fan agreed saying, "Hate to say it but this is one comment I can get behind him on.."
"That’s when you know it’s really bad"- commented another fan.
Bashing FIFA a fan said, "Fifa is greedy institution nothing more."
Will FIFA Step In to Curb the Rising Prices for the World Cup?
President Donald Trump was asked about the cost of attending the USMNT’s opening match against Paraguay, and he did not exactly defend the numbers. After hearing how expensive some tickets had become, Trump said he would like to attend but admitted he “wouldn’t pay it either.”
That comment will only add more attention to an issue fans have been complaining about for weeks. The U.S. is hosting part of the tournament, but for many supporters, watching the national team in person is starting to feel out of reach. Reports have already suggested that demand for the USMNT opener in Los Angeles has not matched some of the other games at SoFi Stadium, and the high prices appear to be a major reason.
FIFA, meanwhile, is standing by its approach. Gianni Infantino has argued that the prices reflect the American sports and entertainment market, while also pointing out that resale rules in the U.S. make ticket pricing more complicated.
Michael Regan - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
Trump seemed to recognize the commercial success of the tournament, saying sales have been strong overall. But he also made it clear that he would not want regular fans priced out of the experience.
The criticism has now moved beyond fans and politicians are asking FIFA for answers, raising questions about whether the pricing system is fair, transparent, or simply too aggressive.
