FIFA's World Cup plan draws fire over viability as crypto-linked ticketing quietly enters the picture

FIFA’s 2026 World Cup plan is drawing scrutiny over whether its revenue strategy could undermine full stadiums, with crypto-linked ticketing quietly entering the mix. BBC economics editor Faisal Islam said the expanded 48-team tournament—hosted across the US, Canada and Mexico—is projected to generate $3 billion to $7 billion in ticket and hospitality revenue, far above the $929 million figure from Qatar 2022. FIFA’s “asset-light” approach relies on existing NFL venues rather than new infrastructure, while dynamic ticket pricing could produce a “K-shaped” outcome: wealthy fans access luxury hospitality, and other supporters face higher prices or limited availability. FIFA will also use blockchain-based digital collectibles tied to ticket allocation and resale, taking a 15% cut on secondary-market transactions. If stadium occupancy or resale activity disappoints, crypto-linked revenue could fall too.