Press Briefing Overview
In a press briefing held via Zoom from Coral Gables, Florida, U.S. men’s national soccer team head coach Mauricio Pochettino addressed comments made by American player Tim Weah regarding ticket prices for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
World Cup Ticket Prices
The tournament, set to take place from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, features ticket prices soaring up to $8,680 and parking fees reaching up to $175. Weah earlier criticized these costs in an interview with France’s Le Dauphiné, stating:
“It is too expensive. I am just a bit disappointed by the ticket prices. Lots of real fans will miss matches.”
Coach Pochettino’s Response
Pochettino responded firmly, emphasizing that players should focus solely on their performance on the field rather than outside concerns. He remarked:
“First of all, I think players need to talk on the pitch, playing football, not outside of. It is not his duty to evaluate the price of the ticket.”
The coach further explained that his primary role is to ensure the team is well-prepared for competition, arguing that evaluating ticket prices is outside the realm of responsibility for athletes. He added that it’s FIFA’s responsibility to clarify the reasons behind their pricing decisions:
“We are not politicians. We are sport people that only we can talk about our job.”
Pochettino stressed that the focus should remain on training and team performance, concluding that any discussions regarding ticket prices should be left to those in charge of the federation.
Upcoming Matches
Leading up to the World Cup, the U.S. team will engage in friendly matches against:
- Belgium on March 28
- Portugal on March 31
- Senegal on May 31
- Germany on June 6
They will kick off their tournament against Paraguay in Inglewood, California, on June 12.
