Paxton launches investigation into FIFA over World Cup ticketing practices

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Tuesday that his office has opened an investigation into the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) over allegations of deceptive ticketing practices tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The investigation centers on claims that FIFA may have misled consumers about the location and quality of seats sold for upcoming World Cup matches scheduled to take place in Houston and Arlington. According to Paxton's office, reports suggest some fans purchased premium “Category 1” tickets based on seating maps that indicated high-value views of the field. However, after purchases were completed, the seating maps were allegedly altered, placing those seats into “Category 2” sections, which are considered a lower-tier experience.

Paxton’s office said it has received several consumer complaints related to the issue. The investigation will examine whether FIFA violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act (DTPA), provisions of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, and whether the organization misrepresented seat classifications to consumers at the time of purchase.

The DTPA is designed to protect consumers from false, misleading, or deceptive business practices and provides Texans with the ability to seek damages when such conduct occurs.

Texas is not alone in raising concerns about FIFA’s ticketing practices. The state joins New York and California in pursuing complaints regarding the organization’s handling of ticket sales for the highly anticipated tournament.

The controversy comes as FIFA implements a new demand-based ticketing model for this year’s World Cup. Unlike previous tournaments that relied on fixed pricing structures, ticket prices now fluctuate based on demand. The system has contributed to what has been described as the highest ticket prices in World Cup history, with costs rising significantly throughout the year.

FIFA has also introduced a new Right to Buy (RTB) digital token system. The tokens provide fans with “exclusive permission to purchase FIFA tickets for specific matches,” effectively allowing supporters to reserve the opportunity to buy tickets at a later date.

Paxton said his office intends to closely review FIFA’s practices to ensure Texas consumers are treated fairly.

“I will work to ensure that FIFA is engaging in ethical and honest business practices so that Texas fans are treated fairly,” Paxton stated.

“Sports have a unique power to bring people together, and FIFA must understand that Texans take their competition—and their consumer rights—seriously.”