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Gareth Bale criticizes ticket pricing and political issues in World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 7:30 PM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Gareth Bale criticizes ticket pricing and political issues in World Cup

Summary

Gareth Bale has expressed concerns about off-pitch issues surrounding the FIFA 2026 World Cup, which is being held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He highlighted how politics have overshadowed the tournament amid soaring ticket prices, making it difficult for average fans to attend matches. FIFA's dynamic pricing and changes in ticketing policy have contributed to making this World Cup the most expensive in history. Bale, speaking at the launch of his sports investment fund, stated that the fan experience is being compromised and called for more accessibility for regular supporters.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•Bale criticizes FIFA's ticket pricing strategy for the World Cup.
•FIFA expects $13 billion in revenue from the event.
•The tournament has been affected by significant political issues.
•Bale advocates for better access for fans to attend matches.
•FIFA's ticketing changes have made 2026 the costliest World Cup.

Latest Updates

7:30 PMYahoo Sports — Gareth Bale slams ‘outrageous’ World Cup issue

What they're saying

"
Former Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur superstar Gareth Bale has given his verdict on some of the off-pitch issues which have engulfed the FIFA 2026 World Cup. Less than a week into the quadrennial event being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the sport itself has been – to an extent – overshadowed by politics.
— Yahoo Sports

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