President Donald J. Trump said he would not pay the approximately $1,000 price for a ticket to the U.S. World Cup opener [1].
The comments highlight growing public scrutiny over the affordability of the 2026 tournament, as high ticket costs potentially limit access for average fans.
Speaking in an interview with the New York Post on May 7, 2026 [2], the president addressed the cost of attending the United States men’s national team match against Paraguay. The match is scheduled to take place at a U.S. venue. Trump said the four-figure pricing was excessive for the event [1].
"I would certainly like to be there, but I wouldn't pay it either, to be honest with you," Trump said [3].
The president indicated that while he has an interest in attending the game, the financial cost is not justified. He said that the pricing is a barrier that would deter him and other supporters from purchasing tickets at the current rate [1].
"I wouldn't pay four-figure ticket prices for the World Cup opener," Trump said [4].
This critique comes as the tournament approaches, with ticket pricing remaining a central point of contention for sports fans. The cost for the opener is cited at roughly $1,000 [1].
"I wouldn't pay it either, to be honest," Trump said [5].
“"I would certainly like to be there, but I wouldn't pay it either, to be honest with you."”
The president's comments reflect a broader tension between the commercial goals of tournament organizers and the accessibility of the sport for the general public. By publicly criticizing the $1,000 price point, Trump aligns himself with consumer frustrations regarding the 'premiumization' of major sporting events, which can alienate the domestic fanbase during a home-soil tournament.
