The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is being closely preceded by the ongoing Club World Cup a key test event, particularly for the U.S. However, repeated issues, especially sparse crowds, have put FIFA on alert. In response to fears of low turnout, ticket prices for the first semi-final have been dramatically reduced by over 56,000 taka.
The semi-finals kick off today (Tuesday), with Chelsea taking on Fluminense at 1:00 AM Bangladesh time at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Despite its 82,500-seat capacity, past matches at the venue have failed to attract full houses. As a result, ticket prices initially set at $473.90 (around 57,867 BDT) have been slashed to just 1,636 BDT, in an effort to fill the stands.
FIFA had already categorized ticket pricing for the tournament’s 63 matches based on importance, but extreme weather, intense heat, and football’s comparatively lower popularity in the U.S. have impacted turnout. While Chelsea vs. Fluminense tickets have dropped sharply, prices for the second semi-final between Real Madrid and PSG remain significantly higher at $199.60 (about 24,372 BDT).
This isn’t the first time FIFA has made such cuts. The Athletic previously reported that ticket prices were reduced to just $11.15 for quarter-finals between Al Hilal vs. Fluminense in Orlando and Chelsea vs. Palmeiras in Philadelphia. Despite such efforts, consistent fan turnout has been rare Real Madrid matches have been the sole exceptions, drawing over 60,000 spectators on five occasions.
For example, last Saturday’s quarter-final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund at the MetLife Stadium attracted 76,611 fans, with Real winning 3-2. In contrast, during the group stage match between Chelsea and LAFC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, only 22,137 spectators turned up in a 71,000-seat arena. Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca expressed his frustration: “It was a strange atmosphere. The stadium was almost empty. Of course, as professionals, we must adapt, but we’re used to playing in packed arenas.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino had previously urged fans to “be part of history” and support the biggest event in world football. But as attendance continues to fall short, the ticket cuts reflect FIFA’s growing concern ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
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FAQ
1. Why did FIFA reduce ticket prices for the Club World Cup semi-final?
FIFA slashed ticket prices for the Chelsea vs. Fluminense semi-final due to poor attendance in earlier matches and fears that the large-capacity MetLife Stadium would remain empty. The original ticket price of $473.90 was reduced to just $11.15 (around 1,636 BDT).
2. Which matches have seen the highest attendance so far?
Matches involving Real Madrid have drawn the largest crowds, with at least five games crossing 60,000 spectators. Their quarter-final match against Borussia Dortmund saw 76,611 fans in attendance at MetLife Stadium.
3. When and where will the Chelsea vs. Fluminense semi-final take place?
The semi-final will be held at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on Tuesday (local time) at 1:00 AM Bangladesh time. Despite reduced ticket prices, there are concerns about filling the stadium’s 82,500-seat capacity.