FIFA Delayed Payments to World Cup Ticket Sellers
The governing body has missed its 60-day deadline to refund ticket sellers following the 2026 World Cup.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Soccer
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FIFA has failed to issue timely payments to fans who utilized its official resale marketplace during the 2026 World Cup. Despite the organization generating $15 billion in revenue from the tournament, multiple sellers report that their funds remain withheld well past the mandatory 60-day policy window.
Why it matters
The payment delays have drawn the attention of multiple state attorneys general, who are now investigating FIFA's ticketing practices. This scrutiny follows widespread frustration from sellers regarding inconsistent communication and significant financial gaps.
FIFA retains a 15% commission on all marketplace transactions. Sellers like Arik Shalmiyev, Robert Forster, Chaun Basile, and Bart McKay are collectively owed thousands of dollars in proceeds that are currently past due under the 60-day policy.
The players
FIFA
FIFA is the international governing body for association football responsible for organizing the World Cup.
Arik Shalmiyev
Arik Shalmiyev is a ticket seller who is currently owed more than $15,000 from his sales.
Robert Forster
Robert Forster is a ticket seller who is owed more than $3,000 and has sent 36 emails to the organization regarding the delay.
Chaun Basile
Chaun Basile is a ticket seller who is owed approximately $5,000 from his tournament marketplace transactions.
Bart McKay
Bart McKay is a ticket seller who is owed close to $1,900 from his ticket sales.
The details
FIFA attributes the payment backlog to the high volume of transactions and the necessity for manual reviews or alternative banking arrangements. Sellers have expressed intense frustration, with some individuals, such as Robert Forster, reporting they have sent as many as 36 emails to FIFA without receiving their funds.
Timeline
June 13, 2026: Robert Forster sold tickets on the FIFA marketplace.
July 19, 2026: The 2026 World Cup officially concluded.
Late August 2026: Fans began contacting FIFA regarding missing payments.
September 11, 2026: Forster received an email stating his payment was on the way.
September 22, 2026: Forster received an additional email regarding his payment status.
Season Trajectory
This dispute over resale marketplace funds highlights the massive logistical challenges faced by FIFA during the 2026 World Cup. The investigation by state attorneys general into these practices could fundamentally alter how the organization manages ticketing and vendor relations for future major tournaments.
Sellers facing these delays are left with significant capital tied up in the marketplace without a clear disbursement date. Those involved must now wait for the outcome of the ongoing investigations by state attorneys general to see if their funds will be recovered.
The takeaway
While FIFA works to complete outstanding payments, the situation underscores the risks associated with high-volume digital marketplace transactions during major global events. Sellers in similar future scenarios may need to proactively document all communications and maintain detailed records of their transaction receipts.
Further reading
For more on the financial governance of the sport, visit our Soccer section.
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