Global wholesale retailer Costco stunned soccer fans by listing a $39,100 ticket package for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as pricing for the upcoming summer tournament continues to draw fierce criticism.
The controversy surrounding World Cup ticket prices has dominated the run-up to the summer event, with group stage games carrying higher price tags than attending the Super Bowl. The outcry has even spilled into the political arena, with New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill publicly calling out FIFA over its excessive rates.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has stood by the pricing structure , despite U.S. President Donald Trump embarrassing him by declaring he wouldn't pay more than $1,000 for a ticket. Now, Costco has entered into a partnership with FIFA, departing from its traditionally budget-friendly approach, as per The Mirror US .
Costco is typically known for its budget-friendly approach -Credit:Costco
Infantino has maintained that FIFA is handling a record level of ticket demand, despite thousands of seats remaining unsold. The unprecedented price points could prove counterproductive, with several matches at risk of failing to draw capacity crowds.
While millions of consumers worldwide enjoy shopping at Costco, which prices goods up to 21.4 percent lower on average than conventional supermarkets, only a select group of wealthy customers can realistically afford its World Cup packages. The retailer recently unveiled three separate packages, with the most expensive coming in at $39,100.
The hospitality packages are exclusively available to Costco members, with the most affordable option being a single-game ticket to watch the U.S. Men's National Team. Priced from $4,750, the package guarantees two tickets to the USMNT 's final group stage match against Turkey in Los Angeles.
Alternatively, fans can opt to skip that game and instead receive two tickets to the Round of 16 game in New York/New Jersey, though there is no guarantee the USMNT will feature. The package also comes with official FIFA World Cup 2026 merchandise and a digital Costco shop card.
From $21,950, fans can purchase a four-game package that includes two tickets to each event. This package covers tickets to the USMNT-Australia game in Seattle, along with three additional matches, including a Round of 16 game in Houston and a quarterfinal in Miami.
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Buyers of this package will receive a $2,200 Costco gift card and an invitation to an exclusive Costco event. The final and most premium package guarantees two tickets to the World Cup final on July 19.
Starting at $31,900, this package also includes two tickets to the USMNT's game against Australia in Seattle, along with a $4,000 Costco gift card and access to the exclusive company event.
As full hospitality packages, all options include entry to the FIFA Pavilion or Champions Club for pre- and post-game dining, though the specific benefits vary depending on the package and individual game.
The prices are already eye-wateringly high, yet prospective buyers will encounter further expenses on top of that. Costco made clear in its terms and conditions that no package covers airfare or hotel stays, meaning all transportation and lodging must be arranged and financed independently.
Furthermore, Costco members are accustomed to receiving an executive two percent reward, up to $1,250 annually, on in-store purchases. That perk, however, does not apply when buying a Costco hospitality package.
