World Cup final tickets hit stratospheric prices for Spain-Argentina clash

EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (AP):

Anyone still hunting a seat for Lionel Messi’s Argentina against Lamine Yamal’s Spain in the World Cup final will need serious spending power — and perhaps more than one payment card.

The showdown taking place today in East Rutherford, New Jersey, has become an extremely costly outing.

On FIFA’s official resale platform yesterday morning, the lowest available options stood at US$6,411.25 for a mid-tier spot behind the goal. Those bargains were gone by midday.

Corner seats high in the upper tier were advertised at close to US$10,000. Moving nearer the pitch meant roughly US$16,000, while exclusive hospitality packages climbed toward almost US$60,000.

On platforms including SeatGeek and StubHub, upper-level inventory likewise opened near US$10,000, and some lower-bowl places edged toward US$35,000.

Supporters willing to pay that premium would see Messi, widely ranked among the finest footballers in history, pursue another landmark against Yamal, among the game’s most exciting young talents.

Argentina are chasing a fourth World Cup crown and a second straight triumph. No nation has retained the trophy since Brazil did so in 1958 and 1962. Spain’s sole championship came in 2010.