Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, announced Tuesday that his office is investigating FIFA over complaints that the soccer governing body misled fans about the quality and location of seats purchased for upcoming World Cup matches in Texas.
The investigation comes just days before the tournament kicks off in Houston and Arlington on Sunday. Paxton's office said it has received multiple complaints from ticket holders who claim the seats they bought did not match the views shown during the sales process.
According to the attorney general's office, some fans purchased so-called “Category 1” tickets, expecting premium sightlines. But after the sale, FIFA allegedly adjusted the stadium seat maps, moving those buyers to sections with far less desirable views of the pitch.
“I will work to ensure that FIFA is engaging in ethical and honest business practices so that Texas fans are treated fairly,” Paxton, who is also the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate, 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.”
The probe will examine whether FIFA violated the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act, a state consumer protection law, by misrepresenting seat locations or ticket categories during the sales process. Paxton has previously pursued similar consumer protection actions, including an investigation into Celsius energy drinks after a teenager's death was linked to caffeine.
World Cup ticket demand remains intense, with premium seats for high-profile matches selling for thousands of dollars. Tickets for the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey are going for more than $10,000. The tournament is also bringing a spotlight to Texas venues, with 13 of 16 World Cup venues earning LEED green building certification ahead of the event.
Paxton's investigation adds to the political heat surrounding the tournament, as Texas plays host to some of the most anticipated matches. The attorney general's office has not yet filed formal charges or issued subpoenas, but the probe signals that state regulators are closely watching how FIFA handles ticketing for the massive event.
FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Hill.
