U.S. soccer coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed on Thursday that he believes players and coaches should refrain from commenting on World Cup ticket prices, which have faced considerable backlash for being out of reach for many fans.
“It’s not our place to share our views on this issue,” he stated during a virtual press conference. “Our main focus is on playing well on the field.”
Speaking from FIFA’s office in Coral Gables, Florida, Pochettino remarked that inquiries about ticket pricing should be directed to FIFA rather than coaches or athletes. “FIFA is successfully bringing people together globally,” he noted, suggesting that the media should confront FIFA directly for answers. He added, “We should concentrate on the sport and trust that the governing bodies will act appropriately.”
In response to criticism, FIFA has defended the ticket prices by attributing the high costs to demand and the impact of the resale market.
Just two weeks earlier, notable U.S. player Tim Weah expressed disappointment over ticket prices, emphasizing that many dedicated fans may miss the opportunity to attend matches.
When asked about Weah’s remarks, Pochettino replied, “The players should express themselves on the field. Evaluating ticket prices is not something they should concern themselves with. My job is to prepare the team for optimal performance. We are not politicians; we focus on our responsibilities. If FIFA makes decisions, they must explain the reasons behind them.”
Fan Take: This news matters significantly to soccer enthusiasts as ticket accessibility directly impacts fan engagement and the sport’s overall popularity. With soaring costs, the gap between fans and their beloved teams could widen, potentially affecting the atmosphere and support during major events.
