USMNT winger Tim Weah isn't holding back about the sky-high ticket prices for this summer's World Cup. The Marseille star says he's genuinely disappointed that regular fans might get priced out of the biggest tournament in football.
"It is too expensive," Weah told French outlet Le Dauphiné this week. "Football should still be enjoyed by everyone. It is the most popular sport. This World Cup will be good, but it will be more of a show."
The 25-year-old makes a valid point. When the final ticket draw window closes this week, many fans will realize they simply can't afford to attend matches in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
How Expensive Are We Talking?
Let's put this in perspective. A lower-level seat for the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey was priced at $8,860 in December. That's nearly $2,000 more than the original October price of around $7,000.
Hotel prices have jumped over 300 percent in host cities. The New York metro area alone will host eight matches, including the final. For American fans hoping to see the USMNT on home soil, the costs are brutal.
"Lots of real fans will miss matches," Weah added. He's not wrong. The son of Ballon d'Or winner George Weah knows what football culture should look like, having played across Europe at Juventus and now Marseille.
FIFA's Response and What It Means
After massive backlash from fan groups, FIFA made a small adjustment. They're now offering about 1,000 tickets per game at $60 for supporters of the two teams playing. For USMNT fans, these rare affordable tickets will go through three independent supporters' groups, including the American Outlaws.
But let's be real—1,000 tickets per game is a drop in the bucket. Football Supporters Europe called the pricing a "monumental betrayal of the tradition of the World Cup."
For bettors and fans planning to attend matches, this pricing situation matters. The tournament atmosphere could feel different if corporate buyers fill the stands instead of passionate supporters. Home-field advantage for the USMNT might not be as strong if regular American fans can't afford tickets.
Weah has scored 7 goals in 47 appearances for the United States. He'll be a key player in the tournament, but even he wishes more everyday fans could watch in person. FIFA insists the revenue supports football development worldwide, but the question remains: at what cost to the fans who make the sport special?
