New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a city-run lottery to distribute 1,000 FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets at $50 each [1], [2].

The initiative aims to counter soaring market prices that have pushed tickets into the hundreds and thousands of dollars, making the tournament inaccessible for many local fans [3], [5].

The lottery is scheduled to open at 10 a.m. on Monday, May 25, 2026 [4]. Eligible participants must be residents of New York City's five boroughs to enter the draw [1], [2].

The tickets are for matches held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey [1], [2]. To further reduce costs for winners, the city will provide round-trip bus service to the stadium [2].

"We want to make the World Cup accessible to everyday fans as prices soar into the hundreds and thousands of dollars," Mamdani said [3].

Mamdani said the program is designed to give ordinary New Yorkers a fair shot at the event without breaking the bank [5]. He said the lottery provides a specific opportunity for residents to see the matches for just $50 [4].

This effort comes as the city prepares for the influx of international visitors and the logistical challenges of hosting high-profile matches just across the state line in New Jersey [1], [2].

“"The lottery will give New Yorkers a chance to attend matches at MetLife Stadium for just $50."”

This move represents a municipal attempt to mitigate the 'pricing out' of local populations during mega-events. By subsidizing tickets and providing transportation, the city is attempting to ensure that the economic benefits and cultural experiences of the World Cup are not reserved solely for wealthy tourists or high-net-worth individuals.