Tens of thousands of fans have pulled out of attending the 2026 World Cup, citing safety concerns and political instability in the United States. Over the weekend, approximately 16,800 ticket holders canceled their reservations, joining a social media movement that features the hashtag #BoycottWorldCup. This wave of cancellations reflects deep unease among international supporters about the U.S. political climate and ongoing human rights issues.
Reports suggest that these cancellations primarily affect the third phase of ticket sales, which follows FIFA’s strict no cancellation policy on sold tickets. Many fans are voicing their decisions online, urging others to reconsider their attendance until significant political changes occur in the U.S. One tweet emphasized a global push for boycotting not just the World Cup but also the Olympics and any travel to America—calling for an international embargo on American businesses.
In light of these cancellations, FIFA has announced an emergency meeting scheduled for this week to address the growing concerns around fan safety and declining ticket sales. Despite this troubling trend, resale ticket prices have shown relative stability, with only minor fluctuations observed in the average asking prices since late December. For instance, the average asking price for the final match was reported at approximately $21,680, which represents only a modest decline since the previous month.
Ticket data indicates that, while group-stage tickets have seen a slight decrease, later rounds, particularly the semifinals, remain volatile. The current situation raises significant questions regarding the future of attendance as the tournament date approaches. If perceptions of the U.S. as a risky destination continue to grow, it could lead to a further decline in international demand, impacting the ticket market and creating challenges for sellers.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, FIFA has the opportunity to respond to these challenges proactively and reestablish the event’s reputation as a safe and welcoming celebration of soccer, engaging with fans’ concerns and working towards a more inclusive atmosphere.