Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an investigation into FIFA over alleged deceptive ticketing practices for World Cup matches in his state.
Paxton announced his probe into international soccer’s governing body Tuesday, claiming that FIFA misled fans about the location and quality of seats sold for upcoming matches.
“I will work to ensure that FIFA is engaging in ethical and honest business practices so that Texas fans are treated fairly,” he said in a statement. “Sports have a unique power to bring people together, and FIFA must understand that Texans take their competition — and their consumer rights — seriously.”
Seven matches are taking place at Houston’s NRG Stadium and nine are being played at Arlington’s AT&T Stadium, including a semifinal on July 14.
In one example provided by Paxton’s office to USA Today, a fan purchased “Category 1” seats expecting premium views of the field. However, Paxton’s office said FIFA allegedly later adjusted the seat maps to move the fan’s seats to “Category 2,” which have worse views of the action.
FIFA did not respond to a request for comment from USA Today.
State attorneys general in California, New York and New Jersey have launched similar investigations.
–Field Level Media
