FIFA has faced sustained criticism over 2026 World Cup ticket prices, with fans across the United States, Canada and Mexico watching resale costs climb.
Gianni Infantino has defended the pricing structure, but even Donald Trump admitted he would not pay $1,120 for the United States’ opener against Paraguay.
That debate now has a new focal point, with Mexico City emerging as the most expensive host city to watch a World Cup game right now.
Mexico City tops World Cup ticket price list as opening game soars
According to TicketData, the average get-in price in Mexico City is $1,219, putting it ahead of every other 2026 World Cup host city.
The biggest driver is Mexico’s tournament opener against South Africa on 11 June, the first game of the whole competition.
The cheapest ticket currently listed for that match costs $1,962, underlining the demand attached to a host nation opening the tournament at home.
Mexico City will host three group stage games, but the opener is clearly shaping the market more than any other fixture there.
The wider ranking also makes Mexico’s pricing stand out. Guadalajara, which will stage four group stage matches, is third on the list.
That means Mexico currently holds two of the three most expensive World Cup cities, with Miami sitting between Mexico City and Guadalajara in second place on the list.
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