MEXICO CITY — Falling FIFA World Cup ticket prices following the eliminations of co-host United States and Mexico from the knockout stage are raising concerns about short-term spending in host cities, although economists say the tournament is still expected to deliver a broader economic boost through tourism and hospitality activity.
Secondary-market ticket prices for several remaining knockout matches have dropped sharply since the exits of the United States and Mexico, reflecting weaker demand after two of the tournament's biggest fan bases were eliminated. Reuters reported that prices for the United States' round-of-16 match against Belgium had already declined substantially before the team's exit, while resale values for later rounds continued to soften as interest shifted.
The United States was eliminated by Belgium in the round of 16, ending hopes of a deeper run by one of the tournament's three host nations. Mexico was also knocked out in the same stage after losing to England in Mexico City.
The lower ticket prices are expected to affect spending by domestic fans who often travel on short notice for matches, benefiting consumers seeking lower-cost access but potentially reducing revenue for ticket resellers, hospitality providers and businesses that had anticipated stronger demand tied to the host nations' continued participation.
Economists, however, said the broader impact on the United States and Mexico is likely to remain limited. According to S&P Global Market Intelligence, ticket revenue primarily accrues to FIFA rather than host governments, while the principal economic gains for host countries come from increased visitor spending on hotels, restaurants, transportation and entertainment. The firm said World Cup-related activity is expected to provide only a temporary lift to local consumption rather than materially alter national economic growth.
FIFA has reported exceptionally strong overall demand for the expanded 48-team tournament, saying more than five million tickets had been sold by late April after receiving over 500 million ticket requests during earlier sales phases. The governing body has continued releasing additional inventory through its last-minute sales program as the tournament progresses.
Market analysts said resale prices often fluctuate significantly as teams advance or are eliminated, particularly when large traveling fan bases leave the competition. While lower prices may reduce revenues in the secondary market, they can also attract neutral supporters and local spectators to remaining matches.
The FIFA World Cup continues through July 19 across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with organizers continuing ticket sales for the remaining fixtures subject to availability.
