By Jose Rios
SSU Star, Sonoma State
One of the biggest sporting events in the world is the FIFA World Cup. Every four years, people from all over the world come together for one reason: a passion and love for soccer. No matter what country people are from or what beliefs they have, soccer has always had a unique way of bringing people together.
However, with the 2026 World Cup being hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the rising ticket prices make it feel like the tournament is becoming less about the fans and more about business for FIFA.
For many soccer fans, attending a World Cup match is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Fans dream of watching their country play in person or simply experiencing the atmosphere of the tournament while seeing some of the best players in the world compete on the sport’s biggest stage. However, ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup are already reaching hundreds and even thousands of dollars.
According to the Associated Press, some tickets are being listed at extremely high prices before the tournament has even begun. Those costs do not include flights, hotels, parking, food, or other travel expenses fans may have to pay. At those prices, attending matches becomes nearly impossible for many regular fans and families.
What makes the situation even more frustrating is that several matches will be played in the Bay Area at the San Francisco 49ers’ Levi’s Stadium. For soccer fans in Northern California, this should be an exciting opportunity to experience an event many have grown up watching every four years.
In many households, the World Cup is more than just a tournament; it is a tradition and celebration that brings families together. Fans should feel like they have a real chance to attend matches when the tournament is happening so close to home. Instead, many passionate soccer supporters are already being priced out before the competition even starts.
Soccer is often called “the people’s game” because it is played everywhere in the world, from neighborhood streets and local parks to beaches and professional stadiums. That is what makes the World Cup special. It is supposed to represent fans from every background, not just those who can afford expensive tickets without concern.
FIFA should remember that soccer is about more than business and profit. The World Cup represents passion, national pride, and the energy supporters bring to every match. Fans create the atmosphere that makes the tournament memorable. If only wealthy spectators can afford to attend while lifelong supporters are left out, the World Cup risks losing part of what has made it one of the most powerful sporting events in the world for generations.
