The latest FIFA news, headlines and analysis from The NE Times.
Leadership reportedly overruled American-based employees who opposed surge-style ticket pricing, intensifying a debate over affordability, resale costs and how aggressively organisers should chase revenue.
FIFA's president has indicated the US leader will present the trophy to the winners on 19 July, adding a fresh political dimension to a final already framed by American venues and heavy security planning.
Reports that senior leadership overruled staff who opposed dynamic ticket pricing have reignited a debate about whether the tournament can balance record revenue with the trust of ordinary fans.
The expanded 48-team World Cup is under way across three nations, with Mexico christening the tournament at the Azteca, the USA thrashing Paraguay and a string of early results setting the tone for a sprawling festival of football.