FIFA president Gianni Infantino has defended the soaring cost of tickets for the upcoming World Cup in the United States, insisting that prices simply reflect the realities of the American entertainment market rather than a cash grab by world soccer’s governing body.

Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, Infantino dismissed outrage from supporters’ groups who have branded the pricing structure a “monumental betrayal.” Many fans have been stunned to see group-stage tickets listed for thousands of dollars and premium seats for the final advertised on resale platforms for more than $2 million each.

Infantino argued that FIFA is operating in what he called the most mature entertainment market in the world and therefore must “apply market rates.” He said that in the United States, where ticket resale is widely permitted, setting prices too low would only fuel profiteering by scalpers and secondary sellers.

“If you were to sell tickets at a price which is too low, these tickets will be resold at a much higher price,” he said, noting that many seats already appear on resale sites at more than double their original face value. FIFA’s own resale marketplace allows fans to list tickets at whatever price they choose, with the organization taking a 15% fee from both buyer and seller.

Infantino sought to downplay headlines about final tickets advertised at around $2.3 million each, stressing that such listings do not mean the tickets are actually worth that amount or that anyone will pay it. He even joked that if someone did spend $2 million on a seat, he would personally deliver a hot dog and a Coke to ensure “a great experience.”

According to FIFA, tickets for most group matches remain on general sale, with prices ranging from about $380 to more than $4,000. Infantino said roughly a quarter of group-stage tickets can be bought for under $300 and claimed that, in the U.S. sports landscape, that compares favorably with major events.

However, critics point out that tickets for many college and professional games, including NBA playoff contests, are routinely available for less than $300, undercutting FIFA’s argument that its pricing is simply in line with the broader American market.