Dozens of fans thought they had hit the jackpot when a website glitch handed them free tickets for the 2026 World Cup. Now FIFA has told them to pay up.
The governing body said it “regrets” the error, which left ticket buyers unexpectedly charged nothing. The demand for payment comes as FIFA showcases its latest technology at its Zurich headquarters – including innovations that could change how the game is watched.
“FIFA demands payment after website glitch gave fans free World Cup 2026 tickets.”
Shiona McCallum visited FIFA’s HQ for the BBC’s Tech Now programme, where she saw the new tech being deployed at the World Cup. Meanwhile, Martin Sharkey explored how shifts in viewing habits are driving the development of new tools for fans.
But while FIFA invests in the future of the broadcast experience, its ticketing system has caused a more immediate problem. The glitch, which affected the online sales platform, allowed dozens of fans to complete purchases without being charged. FIFA later contacted those fans to demand payment, saying the tickets were never meant to be free.
It is unclear whether fans who have already used their free tickets will be forced to pay or face other penalties.