British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called on FIFA to implement more affordable ticketing options for the upcoming World Cup, following a recent concession that offers a limited number of cheaper seats. The world football governing body announced that 10 percent of tickets within the participant member association allocation will be priced at $60, a move that came after significant fan outcry over the initial high costs.

Earlier this week, supporters discovered that the cheapest tickets for the final would exceed £3,000, with England fans facing potential minimum expenses of over £5,000 to follow their team from the group stage to the final. This pricing structure drew sharp criticism from fan groups, who deemed it a “monumental betrayal” and an “appeasement tactic.”

Starmer, expressing his views on X, formerly Twitter, welcomed the introduction of lower-priced tickets but stressed the need for further action. He drew on his own past experiences of saving for England match tickets, urging FIFA to ensure the World Cup remains accessible to genuine supporters who are the backbone of the sport.

Football Supporters Europe (FSE) highlighted that while the $60 tickets are a step, they do not go far enough. The organization pointed out that this concession does not address pricing for disabled fans or the provision of companion tickets, and that 90 percent of loyal supporters will still face exorbitant costs.

The Football Supporters’ Association’s Fans’ Embassy for England fans echoed these sentiments, accusing FIFA of engaging in “PR games” rather than implementing reasonable pricing for all. They stated that FIFA has a history of announcing headline affordable prices that are not practically available to the majority of fans.

FIFA, however, defended its decision, citing unprecedented demand with over 20 million ticket requests. A FIFA official close to the discussions emphasized that the $60 tickets are a direct response to feedback and are intended for loyal fans, with associations responsible for distributing them. The organization also noted that a commercially successful World Cup benefits all 211 member associations globally.

Despite FIFA’s defense, fan groups remain largely unsatisfied, calling for genuine dialogue to establish prices that respect the contributions and dignity of all supporters. The Football Association has been approached for comment on the matter.

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Keywords: Keir Starmer, FIFA World Cup ticket prices, affordable football tickets, fan protests, football governance, sports economics, fan advocacy, World Cup 2026