New York City residents will soon get a chance to attend select 2026 FIFA World Cup matches for just $50. Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced the initiative after reaching a deal linked to the tournament, with the offer also including free transportation for ticket holders.
Discounted tickets announced for NYC residents
The new programme will make 1,000 tickets available at a subsidised price of $50 each for matches taking place at MetLife Stadium during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The offer will apply to select group-stage and knockout matches, but not the final, as per Hindustan Times.
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The tickets will reportedly be distributed through a lottery system. Winners will be allowed to buy up to two tickets, and the passes will be non-transferable to prevent resale. Free round-trip transportation to the stadium will also be included as part of the package.
Mamdani highlights affordability concerns
Speaking about the initiative, Mamdani stressed the need to make the global sporting event more accessible for ordinary residents. Reports noted that he had earlier criticised rising ticket and travel costs linked to the World Cup.
The mayor also pointed to the sharp difference between regular ticket prices and the subsidised scheme. Market prices for some matches have already climbed significantly, with resale rates for premium games reaching extremely high figures.
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India's streaming situation is still unclear
The announcement comes at a time when uncertainty continues around the broadcasting and streaming arrangements for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in India. While several countries have already moved ahead with telecast partnerships and distribution plans, an official confirmation regarding Indian streaming access is still awaited.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with New York-New Jersey set to host multiple matches, including the final.
