FIFA Cuts Club World Cup Opener Ticket Prices Again

FIFA has dramatically reduced ticket prices for the June 14 opening match of the expanded 32-team Club World Cup at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium, where Lionel Messi's Inter Miami will face Egypt's Al Ahly, due to sluggish sales and tens of thousands of unsold seats. Initial ticket prices after the December draw reached $349 but have fallen to as low as $55 as the event approaches, reflecting FIFA's dynamic pricing model. Reports indicate fewer than 20,000 tickets have been sold, though FIFA disputes this without releasing exact sales figures. Criticism has arisen over the decision to host the opener in Inter Miami's home market, which some believe has limited appeal, while matches involving European giants such as Real Madrid and Manchester City are drawing stronger demand and higher prices. Early ticketholders are not eligible for partial refunds despite the price drops. FIFA remains optimistic about overall tournament attendance, which will span 11 U.S. cities through July 13.