World Cup Ticket Glitch: FIFA Cancels “Free” Sales and Requires Payment

By Enitan Abdultawab

FIFA has confirmed that a technical error on its website briefly allowed around 60 fans to acquire World Cup tickets without paying, before the purchases were cancelled and payment was required.

The governing body explained that the problem stemmed from a checkout malfunction that incorrectly processed some transactions at no cost. FIFA notified the affected customers on Wednesday, 3 June.

FIFA said it “regrets any inconvenience caused” and has given the impacted fans a seven‑day period to complete payment if they wish to keep their tickets. Tickets will be removed from accounts if payment is not made within that time.

The tickets in question are believed to be for group‑stage matches in Toronto, part of the World Cup being held across Canada, the United States and Mexico, which is set to begin on Thursday, 11 June.

The organisation has already faced criticism over its pricing practices and ticket availability, with seats still being sold just days before the tournament starts.

Authorities in New York and New Jersey have reportedly opened investigations into FIFA’s ticket sales methods, focusing on concerns about pricing transparency and potential misleading practices.

FIFA has defended its use of “variable pricing,” a system where ticket prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. It says additional tickets may still be released up to kickoff.

The World Cup, football’s largest global event, continues to face pressure over fan access and affordability even before the first match begins.

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