2026 World Cup: How FIFA Systematically Excludes People with Disabilities
Vienna, April 16, 2026 — FIFA is marketing the 2026 World Cup as the biggest and most inclusive football festival in history. 48 teams, three host countries, over five million spectators in the stadiums. But behind the glossy facade lies a bitter reality: For people with disabilities, this tournament is not inclusive – it is exclusive. And in the worst sense of the word.
Exclusionary prices
Complaints about exorbitant prices for the 2026 World Cup continue to pour in. But while even wealthy fans are complaining about ticket costs of several thousand dollars, people with disabilities are being hit twice and thrice over. Accessible seating is not only more expensive – it's practically unavailable. Those who want to book a wheelchair spot plus a companion face a bureaucratic nightmare. The few available allotments were gone within minutes. Without explanation, without replenishment, without an alternative.
Added to this are the hidden costs: accessible accommodations in the US venues are scarce and overpriced. Public transportation in cities like Houston, Dallas, or Atlanta is often an ordeal for wheelchair users. FIFA? Refers to the local organizers. The local organizers? Refer to FIFA.
A system of organized irresponsibility
Disability associations from several countries have already officially filed complaints. The responses are similar: they are working on it, they take the concerns seriously, they will find solutions. Little to nothing has happened so far. The British organization Level Playing Field has been documenting cases for months of fans who were left empty-handed despite trying to book early. Similar reports are coming from Germany, France – and also from Austria.
The Austrian Council for Disability confirms in response to YANUS's inquiry: Several Austrian fans have come forward who were unable to obtain adequate tickets despite all efforts. Although the national team did not qualify, many Austrians want to experience the tournament as neutral fans. For people with disabilities, this dream often remains unfulfilled.
Profit Before Inclusion
The truth is uncomfortable: Accessibility costs money and generates less profit. A wheelchair space requires more area than a regular seat. FIFA and its partners have opted for capacity maximization—not for humanity. The 48-team format was intended to involve more countries, excite more fans, and generate more money. The fact that those who already struggle against barriers daily are left behind is accepted with a shrug.
The EU Commission has since taken up the issue. An inquiry regarding compliance with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at major international sporting events has been submitted. Consequences? Unlikely. FIFA operates as a state within a state; its sponsors are more powerful than some parliaments.
The Two Sides of Power
On the one hand, there's the glossy narrative: football connects the world, sport knows no boundaries, it's the taking part that counts. On the other hand, there's the reality of a multi-billion dollar entertainment conglomerate for whom people with disabilities are, at best, a PR challenge – and at worst, a calculable factor to be minimized. This World Cup shows once again that inclusion only happens when it's profitable. YANUS will critically monitor further developments – because those who exclude the weakest do not deserve a stage.
