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FIFA World Cup opens to empty seats amid ticket pricing issues

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 5:43 PM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

FIFA World Cup opens to empty seats amid ticket pricing issues

Summary

The FIFA World Cup kicked off at Estadio Akron on June 12 with both matches showing significant numbers of empty seats. South Korea faced Czechia and crowds in the VIP sections were sparse, indicating a backlash against FIFA's controversial ticketing strategy. Approximately 180,000 tickets remained available leading up to the tournament, with some tickets priced as high as $10,990. FIFA's decision to implement variable pricing has drawn criticism, prompting legal inquiries from several U.S. states. Despite efforts to lower prices prior to the event, the demand at these price points appears to have diminished.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•South Korea defeats Czechia 2-1 in an opening match at FIFA World Cup.
•Significant empty seats visible during matches on June 12.
•Over 180,000 tickets left unsold prior to the tournament start.
•Legal inquiries initiated regarding FIFA's ticket pricing tactics.
•FIFA reduced ticket prices before the event, yet demand remained low.

Latest Updates

5:43 PMYahoo Sports — FIFA World Cup opens to empty seats amid ticket pricing controversy

What they're saying

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Visible sections of empty seats in both of the FIFA World Cup's opening two games on Thursday were clear to see, with FIFA's controversial ticketing strategy backfiring
— Yahoo Sports

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