Priced out of World Cup games, Mexican fans take celebrations into their own hands

Priced out of World Cup games, many Mexican fans are taking celebrations into their own hands by watching matches via televisions set up in public and private street settings. The story, set in Mexico City during the FIFA World Cup, describes fans gathering in plazas, under highway overpasses, and at taco stands as Mexico wins matches while crowds cheer from improvised viewing areas. It frames the street celebrations as an outlet for people who feel excluded by high ticket costs for the tournament hosted by Mexico alongside the U.S. and Canada. Ticket prices noted range from $140 to $8,680, with some final tickets around $32,970, despite an average monthly worker income of about $433. Oxfam Mexico’s Diego Merla said the pricing effectively maximizes revenue and excludes many fans. FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended prices as aligned with the U.S. market, arguing U.S. college-level and top professional games cost over $300.