Petition to FIFA: Demand Accountability and Transparency in 2026 World Cup Hospitality Ticket Distribution

To: Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)

We, the undersigned, are writing to express our profound disappointment and outrage regarding the handling of hospitality ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A significant number of football fans, estimated to be over 200,000 individuals globally, have been subjected to deceptive and unfair practices by On Location, the officially appointed global distributor for these premium ticket packages. We demand immediate intervention by FIFA to investigate On Location's conduct, rectify the current situation, and ensure a fair and transparent process for all fans.

In anticipation of the 2026 World Cup, many fans, eager to secure their attendance at this prestigious event, paid a refundable deposit of $500 USD per seat to On Location. This deposit was explicitly advertised and understood as guaranteeing early access to hospitality packages, including premium seating, exclusive experiences, and other VIP amenities. On Location's marketing materials and communications explicitly promised a time-stamped place in a queue for ticket selection, ensuring that those who paid their deposits earliest would have priority access. Furthermore, they pledged personalized contact from a dedicated agent to guide each customer through the package selection and purchase process.

These promises have been egregiously broken. Instead of a transparent and equitable system, On Location has implemented a chaotic and seemingly arbitrary process that has severely damaged fan trust and created widespread frustration. Reports indicate that only a small fraction of deposit holders have been contacted to date, leaving the vast majority in a state of uncertainty and anxiety. Those who have been contacted have encountered a system riddled with inconsistencies and price gouging.

A particularly egregious example is the “Follow Your Team” package, which was initially offered to some early deposit holders at a price of $10,000 USD. Within a matter of days, On Location drastically increased the price of the identical package by 50%, to $15,000 USD. This arbitrary and substantial price hike, seemingly implemented without justification or transparency, is a clear demonstration of exploitative practices and a complete disregard for the financial commitments made by fans who paid their deposits in good faith.

Furthermore, many fans who paid their deposits months ago, some of the very first to do so, have yet to receive any communication from On Location whatsoever. This complete lack of communication, coupled with the preferential treatment afforded to a select few, raises serious concerns about the fairness and integrity of On Location's distribution process. It appears that instead of adhering to the promised time-stamped queue, On Location is operating a system of their own design, potentially prioritizing certain customers over others, or engaging in other undisclosed and potentially unethical practices.

This situation is completely unacceptable. Fans have invested significant sums of money, not just in the deposits themselves, but also in travel arrangements, accommodation, and other related expenses, based on the assurances provided by On Location. The company’s failure to deliver on its promises, the arbitrary price increases, and the lack of communication constitute a gross betrayal of fan trust and a serious disservice to the integrity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Therefore, we, the undersigned, demand that FIFA take the following actions:

Immediately launch a full and transparent investigation into On Location's practices regarding the distribution of 2026 World Cup hospitality tickets. This investigation must examine the company’s adherence to its stated policies, its communication with deposit holders, and its pricing practices.
Strip On Location of its rights as the official distributor of hospitality tickets for the 2026 World Cup if the investigation reveals any wrongdoing or breach of contract.

Implement a fair and transparent process for the distribution of hospitality tickets, ensuring that all fans who paid deposits are given equal opportunity to purchase packages at reasonable and consistent prices. This process should adhere to the originally promised time-stamped queue system.
Establish a clear and accessible channel of communication for fans to address their concerns and receive timely updates on the ticket distribution process.

Hold On Location accountable for any financial losses incurred by fans as a result of their deceptive practices.

We believe that these actions are essential to restore fan trust and ensure the integrity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. We urge FIFA to act swiftly and decisively to address this urgent matter and demonstrate its commitment to fair play and transparency in all aspects of the tournament.