World Cup 2026: NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani says tournament ‘makes more than enough money’

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the World Cup brings in “more than enough” revenue and fans shouldn’t have to pay more.

The tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada Most expensive to participate Many first round games cost between $350 and $5,000 (£260 to £3,735).

Supporters have also seen increased charges for hotels and transport.

Train and bus fares for World Cup matches at New York New Jersey Stadium was cut Following a response from fans but still 10 times the normal cost.

Mamdani, who became mayor of New York in January, said FIFA could have made the tournament affordable.

Football’s world governing body has revenues of around $9 billion From the tournament, more than the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Mamdani BBC Radio 5 Live said: “We made it clear from the beginning that this is a World Cup for everyone.

“New Jersey Transportation has tickets to the stadium that are about $100. That’s a decision they made, and I sympathize that they had to make that decision so they don’t hurt.

“Part of that is a reflection of the host city agreement with FIFA. I think there’s been enough generated not just in this World Cup, but in every World Cup, so those costs are covered, and the fans don’t have to make up that shortfall.”

BBC Sport Plot a route through In the group stages before the tournament and it appears England fans will need around £6,500 to attend the three matches.

Mamdani, 34, said New York has been able to bring some support for fans, such as free fanzones across the city.

“When you saw the price of those tickets, everybody was afraid of how they could be a part of it,” he said.

“I’m proud that we’ve secured 1,000 tickets for each game at $50 and we have fan fests, one free in each borough.

“When I came into office, they were going to charge for them, and I’m glad they took that cost away.

“We want this to be a moment where tourists and New Yorkers alike can rediscover this city. We have 900 bars and restaurants that have signed up to our $26 World Cup meal deal. We want everyone who can and can be a part of this tournament.

“It’s part of the fight against the commoditization of sports, becoming just another luxury product.”