New Yorkers to get World Cup tickets at $50 after Mamdani secures exclusive deal with FIFA: Report

New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani has reportedly secured an exclusive deal with FIFA that will allow local residents to buy World Cup tickets for just $50 (Rs 4,800 approx) during the 2026 World Cup. According to The Athletic, Mamdani successfully negotiated with FIFA to reserve 1,000 low-cost tickets for matches taking place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The stadium will host several FIFA World Cup games this summer, including five group-stage matches, one Round of 32 fixture, and one Round of 16 clash. However, the deal does not include tickets for the World Cup final on July 19, which is slated to be held at the same venue in East Rutherford in New Jersey.

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Mamdani secures great deal for New Yorkers

The tickets will be distributed through a ballot system and will only be available to people living in New York City. Fans selected in the ballot will also receive free round-trip bus transport to the stadium. The $50 tickets are expected to be the cheapest available seats on the primary market for the World Cup. The lottery window will open on May 25 and the results will be announced on June 3.

Ticket prices have been a major concern among fans ahead of the upcoming World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Mamdani's special agreement with FIFA to provide New Yorkers with cheaper tickets for the marquee tournament is a move expected to receive appreciation from local football enthusiasts.

Mamdani had reportedly promised better access for local residents to major sporting events taking place in New York during his election campaign. He has now delivered on that promise by reportedly securing access to low-cost World Cup tickets. As per the report, Mamdani had spoken about this with FIFA president Gianni Infantino earlier this year.