Game Over Greed”: NYC Mayoral Candidate Challenges FIFA Ticket Pricing

Zohran Mamdani addressing a crowd of NYC soccer fans (image source)

As New York City prepares to host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani has launched a high-profile campaign against FIFA’s controversial dynamic pricing model. The Democratic Socialist frontrunner calls the practice a “betrayal of the fans,” arguing that it prioritizes profits over access for ordinary supporters.

“We’re not asking for miracles. We’re asking FIFA to return to its roots,” Mamdani said during a press conference in the Bronx, drawing applause from local soccer enthusiasts.

Campaign Demands Mamdani’s petition, titled Game Over Greed, proposes:

• Ending FIFA’s dynamic ticket pricing

• Implementing caps on resale ticket prices

• Reserving 15% of stadium tickets for local residents at discounted rates
  

The campaign highlights fears that resale prices could escalate from as little as $60 to over $6,000, effectively pricing out New Yorkers and local soccer fans. Mamdani argues that hosting the World Cup should benefit residents first, rather than creating a windfall for scalpers and brokers.

FIFA defended its pricing structure as “market reflective” but pledged fixed-price tickets for select categories of fans, including local community members. Analysts say this approach may not fully address the concerns raised by Mamdani and other activists.

Ticketing expert Luis Arroyo said: “Dynamic pricing is designed to maximize revenue. Without caps or local allocations, fans are left with limited options, especially in high-demand cities like New York.” The campaign has already gathered thousands of signatures, attracting attention from media outlets and sports commentators. Local soccer clubs, fan associations, and student groups have publicly endorsed the petition, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and fairness.

Mamdani intends to incorporate sports accessibility into his broader mayoral platform, which also focuses on affordable housing, public transportation, and community investment.

“The biggest sporting event in the world is happening in our backyard. But most New Yorkers will be priced out of watching it live,” Mamdani stressed.

The debate over ticket pricing could set a precedent for future international sporting events hosted in the U.S., affecting policy, fan engagement, and municipal planning. With MetLife Stadium slated to host the final, pressure is mounting on FIFA to revise its model or risk public backlash.