The ticket prices for the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal have been dropped by more than half on resale markets. The reason behind it has been reported to be the elimination of the USA and Portugal teams.
Secondary market ticket prices for the Spain vs Belgium World Cup quarterfinal at SoFi Stadium have collapsed by nearly 60%, reflecting a sharp drop in demand following the elimination of the United States and Portugal.
According to resale platform TickPick, the cheapest available tickets fell from around $2,950 to $1,200 within hours of the results. The United States suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Belgium, while Spain edged Portugal 1-0, bringing an end to Cristiano Ronaldo’s participation in what was confirmed to be his final World Cup.
Ticket prices drop for World Cup quarterfinal after USA and Portugal exit
Industry analysts point to the loss of star power and home interest as the main drivers.
Ronaldo’s global fanbase has long been credited with boosting attendance and secondary market values, and his departure appears to have had a more pronounced effect than the exit of the host-nation side.
Broader quarterfinal ticket averages have also fallen by over 30% in the past day. The 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has been the most expensive World Cup in history. Organisers will now hope that strong performances by remaining favourites can sustain interest through the later knockout stages, with the final scheduled for 19 July in New Jersey.
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