New York and New Jersey investigate FIFA World Cup ticket sales

The attorneys general in New York and New Jersey announced Tuesday that they are investigating whether FIFA's ticketing practices violated consumer protection laws. They sent subpoenas to soccer's global governing body demanding information on variable pricing models and changes to stadium seating maps.

New York Attorney General Letitia James said New Yorkers deserve a fair shot at affordable tickets. She added that fans should be able to trust that purchased tickets match the seats they receive. New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport said FIFA turned ticket purchases into a process marked by confusion, fake scarcity, and high prices.

She stated the event should not exploit residents and visitors.

Background on prior FIFA cases FIFA faced U.S.

Department of Justice charges in May 2015 when nine officials and five marketing executives were indicted on racketeering, wire fraud, and money laundering counts. Prosecutors alleged more than $150 million in bribes tied to broadcasting and marketing rights. Several officials pleaded guilty and longtime president Sepp Blatter resigned. FIFA pledged structural reforms after the case.

Cup schedule The World Cup begins June 11 with matches in Mexico City and Guadalajara. The first match at the 82,000-seat MetLife Stadium, temporarily renamed New York New Jersey Stadium, is scheduled for June 13 between Brazil and Morocco. Some seats for the July 19 final are listed near $33,000.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced last week that 1,000 tickets for MetLife games, excluding the final, will be offered to city residents through a lottery at $50 each. FIFA previously made some $60 tickets available for every match through national federations.

FIFA declined to comment on the current investigation.