FIFA Explains Empty Seats at World Cup Matches

FIFA attributed the empty seats during the World Cup match between South Korea and the Czech Republic in Guadalajara to fans watching from the concourses. At Guadalajara Stadium, with its 45,664-seat capacity, many seats appeared empty. Despite this, the reported attendance was 44,985, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

FIFA clarified that attendance figures are based on the number of tickets scanned and spectators present within the stadium perimeter, not visual seating assessments. The organization collaborates closely with stadium authorities and ticketing teams to verify operational data. They noted that several fans preferred standing in concourses rather than occupying their allotted seats.

On the same day in Toronto, the stadium was nearly full for Canada’s inaugural World Cup match at home. However, some empty spots were observed near the field and in higher sections. Toronto Stadium holds 43,036 people and had extra seating added to meet FIFA’s requirements. The recorded attendance there was 43,002.

Toronto faced a busy sports weekend with events like the Blue Jays hosting the Yankees and the Canadian Open golf tournament happening nearby. This year’s World Cup saw FIFA implementing record high ticket prices across venues in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Ticket prices were dynamically set and frequently adjusted upward since sales began last fall.

Gianni Infantino defended the ticket pricing strategy as suitable for the North American market, despite facing criticism over prices sometimes reaching five figures. Ahead of the tournament’s start, 29 games were sold out, although some had wheelchair-accessible seats available, while 75 matches still had tickets remaining.