New York City Mayor Secures Affordable FIFA World Cup Tickets for Residents

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has successfully negotiated 1,000 discounted tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, priced at $50 each. These tickets will be available through a lottery system for NYC residents, covering several matches at MetLife Stadium. This initiative aims to make the World Cup accessible to local fans amid rising ticket prices. The lottery opens on May 25, allowing residents to enter for a chance to secure these affordable tickets. With free transportation included, this move addresses the growing concerns over FIFA's pricing strategies and aims to bring the excitement of the World Cup to more New Yorkers.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 22, 2026, 06:27 IST

Affordable Tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mayor Zohran Mamdani of New York City has successfully negotiated 1,000 discounted tickets for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, following concerns over the high prices of the tournament. Each ticket will be available for just $50 and will be allocated through a lottery system specifically for residents of New York City. These tickets will grant access to five group-stage matches, one Round of 32 game, and one Round of 16 match at MetLife Stadium located in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Additionally, free round-trip bus transportation to the stadium will be provided.

During a press conference, Mamdani acknowledged the exorbitant ticket prices for the tournament, which have skyrocketed into the thousands. He expressed concern for many New Yorkers eager to attend the matches but unable to afford the steep costs. This announcement comes amid FIFA's ongoing scrutiny regarding dynamic pricing and the high costs associated with resale tickets for the World Cup. The lowest-priced group-stage tickets from FIFA start at $60, while final match tickets have been listed for as much as $6,730. On resale platforms, some group-stage tickets have surpassed $2,000.

Initially, Mamdani advocated for FIFA to reduce ticket prices, impose limits on resale prices, and allocate 15% of tickets for local residents. After assuming office in January, he transitioned from public criticism to direct negotiations with FIFA President Gianni Infantino through the host committee.

How to Obtain the $50 World Cup Tickets

The lottery for these discounted tickets will commence at 10 AM on Monday, May 25, at REGNYCTIX.com and will be open for six days. Each day, a maximum of 50,000 individuals can enter the lottery.

Applicants must be at least 15 years old, and only one entry per person is permitted. Winners will be chosen randomly and notified via email on June 3. Those selected will have 48 hours to purchase up to two tickets at the $50 price point. Tickets must be picked up in person on the day of the match and are non-transferable to deter scalping.

The tickets will be distributed evenly across the five boroughs of New York City. Buyers may also need to confirm their identity and residency with official identification, utility bills, rental agreements, or pay stubs. Featured matches include Brazil vs. Morocco, France vs. Senegal, Ecuador vs. Germany, and Panama vs. England, along with two knockout-round games.