World Cup 2026 Quarterfinal Ticket Prices Drop 60% After USA, Ronaldo Exits

The steep decline follows back-to-back round of 16 exits by co-host United States and Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal, two of the tournament's biggest draws. On secondary market platforms, the average asking price for a quarterfinal ticket fell from roughly $1,200 to $480 within 48 hours of the final whistle in both matches.

The drop is most pronounced in the cities hosting the four quarterfinal matches, with Boston and Los Angeles seeing the largest percentage declines. Tickets for the match in Boston, which had been listed at a median of $1,500 before the eliminations, now trade near $600. Los Angeles, the other U.S. venue, saw similar movement, with prices sliding from $1,100 to $440.

The two eliminated teams had accounted for a substantial share of demand, particularly from domestic fans and the large Portuguese diaspora in North America. Market analysts said the absence of both squads removes the emotional bidding wars that typically drive prices upward in the knockout stage.

The remaining quarterfinal lineup includes Argentina, France, England, and Brazil, but ticket resellers report that interest has cooled overall. One broker described the market as 'quiet,' noting that many buyers who purchased tickets in anticipation of a U.S. run are now trying to offload them at a loss.

The price drop is a reversal from the group stage, when resale values for U.S. matches surged to record highs. With the tournament now entering its final week, organizers expect attendance to remain strong, but the secondary market suggests a less feverish atmosphere than in previous World Cups.