Unofficial Partner

'More Trouble than It's Worth': The Locals Are Revolting

FIFA’s new fan‑festival model for the 2026 World Cup expands the event by 64% more games than Qatar 2022, aiming to boost ticket sales and sponsorship inventory. The tournament’s projected revenue tops $11 billion, with broadcast rights and global sponsorships driving the upside. However, the cost‑sharing scheme forces host cities to shoulder security, policing, and infrastructure expenses, prompting local officials to label the festivals a financial headache. The model also requires visa bond payments of $5,000 for children and $10,000‑$15,000 for adults, adding another layer of complexity.