Zohran Mamdani, the mayor of New York, has accused Fifa of making the World Cup unaffordable for fans despite the tournament generating 'more than enough' revenue to cover costs. Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Mamdani said the world governing body could have ensured supporters were not forced to pay inflated prices for tickets, transport and accommodation.
The tournament across the United States, Mexico and Canada is the most expensive to attend, with prices for many first-round games ranging from $350 to $5,000 (£260 to £3,735). Supporters have also seen sharp increases in hotel and transport charges. After a backlash, prices for trains and buses to matches at the New York New Jersey Stadium were cut but remain 10 times the usual cost.
“New York mayor Zohran Mamdani says the World Cup generates enough income to avoid passing costs to fans.”
'We made it clear from the beginning we wanted this to be a World Cup for everyone,' Mamdani told the BBC. He acknowledged that transport providers faced a difficult choice. 'New Jersey transport has tickets to get to the stadium that are nearly $100. It's a decision they've made, and I also empathise that they had to make that decision so they aren't running a loss.'
But he argued that Fifa's vast income should have shielded fans. 'Part of that is a reflection of the host city agreement with Fifa. I think there is more than enough generated not just at this World Cup but at every World Cup, so those costs are covered, and fans are not the ones having to bridge that deficit.'
The numbers support his claim: Fifa stands to earn nearly $9bn from the tournament, more than the Paris 2024 Olympics. Yet supporters face eye-watering bills. BBC Sport calculated that England fans would need about £6,500 to attend all three group matches.
Mamdani, 34, who became mayor in January, said his administration had tried to ease the burden. 'When you saw those ticket prices, there was a fear for how everyone would be able to be a part of this,' he said. 'I'm proud we secured 1,000 tickets at $50 for each game and we have fan fests, one in each borough for free. When I came into office, they were going to charge for them, and I'm glad they took away that cost.'
He also highlighted a deal with 900 bars and restaurants offering a $26 World Cup meal. 'We want this to be a moment where tourists and New Yorkers alike can rediscover this city. We want affordability and everyone to be a part of this tournament.'
Mamdani framed the fight for fair prices as a broader battle. 'It's part of fighting back against the commodification of sports, the insistence it becomes yet another luxury product.'