Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning John Grady across Soccer.
Record crowds and soaring resale values underscore a growing willingness among American consumers to pay premium prices for major sporting spectacles, while FIFA faces criticism over its pricing and political entanglements.
Despite soaring ticket prices and travel hurdles, World Cup matches are drawing near‑full stadiums across the United States, underscoring America's appetite for marquee events and setting a promising template for the upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics.
Through 44 matches of the 2026 tournament, organizers have logged more than 2.85 million spectators, keeping stadiums at roughly 99.6 percent capacity. The surge comes despite average ticket prices climbing into the hundreds of dollars and travel restrictions that have limited some international arrivals.
Despite soaring ticket costs and restrictions that have barred many would‑be fans, the 2026 World Cup is drawing near‑full stadiums across the United States, underscoring a U.S. appetite for marquee events.