President Donald Trump holds the FIFA World Cup Winners Trophy as FIFA President Gianni Infantino looks on during an announcement in the Oval Office of the White House (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) FIFA has revealed that more than a million tickets have been snapped up for next year’s World Cup in North America, just weeks after going on sale. Fans from 212 countries are guaranteed seats, although only 28 of the 48 participating teams are confirmed. The biggest demand comes from the host countries – the US, Canada and Mexico – followed by soccer powerhouses including England, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Argentina and France. FIFA president Gianni Infantino described the response as “incredible” and called it a sign that the tournament is capturing the imagination of fans around the world. Tickets for the final in East Rutherford are currently going for between $9,538 and $57,500 on the sales platform, with opening game prices already reaching tens of thousands on the secondary market. Lower level tickets start at $60, but most matches are much higher priced and dynamic pricing will be used for the first time. Fans who missed the first draw will get another chance from October 27, with further stages scheduled closer to the tournament. In total, roughly 7.1 million seats will be available at 16 locations in the US, Canada and Mexico. Adding star power off the court, Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic has been named an ambassador for the World Cup games in Southern California. The self-confessed Slovenian soccer fan said he was excited to welcome fans and help celebrate a sport that “brings so many cultures together around the world.” With demand growing and tickets selling fast, the countdown is officially on for what FIFA hopes will be its “biggest and most inclusive World Cup ever”.
