Middle East and North African football fans hoping to follow their national teams at the 2026 World Cup will need deep pockets, with new analysis showing the total cost to reach the final could exceed $75,000. Research by betting information website AceOdds reveals that the tournament’s expansive North American footprint places the experience far beyond the reach of average supporters, making it an event largely for the wealthiest fans.
Quick Facts
- Total cost to the final can reach $75,255.
- Iraqi supporters face the highest potential bill.
- Tunisian fans still need nearly $60,000.
A Tournament for the Wealthy?
The data paints a stark financial picture for the region’s passionate fanbase. Supporters of Iraq would face the biggest bill if their team made a historic run to the final on July 19. The total estimated cost for flights, match tickets, accommodation, and daily expenses for the six-week tournament would amount to $75,255—almost 12 times the average annual salary in the country.
Even for Tunisian fans, who have the most affordable path among MENA teams, the journey would cost nearly $60,000.
“The World Cup appears to have shifted from being a globally inclusive event to one based on willingness and ability to pay,” said Simon Chadwick, professor of Afro-Eurasian Sport at Emlyon Business School.
The North American Cost Factor
Hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 tournament is set to be the largest in football history, with 48 teams playing 104 matches in 16 different cities. The US will host the majority of the games (78), requiring extensive and expensive travel between venues.
This logistical challenge is compounded by soaring ticket prices. Tickets for the final in New Jersey have already surpassed $30,000 on secondary markets. While FIFA has released a limited batch of tickets for around $60 following public criticism, the overall cost remains prohibitive for most.
A Stark Contrast to Qatar 2022
The financial and logistical hurdles of the 2026 World Cup stand in sharp contrast to the recent tournament in Qatar, an event celebrated for its accessibility, particularly for fans from the MENA region.
“All of this contrasts with what happened at Qatar 2022, when ticket and flight availability seemed much less of a problem, travel distances were far shorter and accommodation challenges ultimately proved less severe than many had feared,” Chadwick added.
About AceOdds
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Source: AGBI
