FIFA faces criticism over ticket management amid World Cup violence concerns
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 1:56 AM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Concerns about crowd safety at the World Cup are rising as fans from rival countries are seated together in the same sections, which is unusual for major tournaments. The lack of clear segregation is attributed to FIFA's management of ticket allocations and resale practices. Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe, highlighted that the movement of tickets can increase risks if tensions arise among fans. Early matches have seen mixed groups, like Dutch and Japanese supporters in Dallas, leading to worries that FIFA lacks control over ticket ownership. Issues regarding fan flag regulations have also emerged during the tournament.
- •FIFA's ticket control criticized for inadequate segregation of rival fans.
- •Supporters from opposing countries often seated together in early matches.
- •Ronan Evain warns that ticket resale complicates safety management.
- •Fan complaints include inconsistent enforcement of flag rules.
- 1:56 AMYahoo Sports — FIFA has ‘lost control’ of tickets as World Cup crowd violence fears grow
"The early stages of the World Cup have delivered packed stadiums and viral fan scenes, but concerns are growing over how supporters are being placed inside venues. Fans from opposing countries have regularly appeared in the same sections during group games, a setup that feels different from the tighter separation usually seen at major international soccer tournaments.
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