FIFA faces Texas investigation over World Cup ticket scandal as storm threatens Houston opener

FIFA is under formal investigation in Texas over allegations that it misled supporters into buying premium World Cup tickets that were later downgraded without notice, as a tropical storm also threatens to disrupt the tournament’s opening weekend in Houston.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton confirmed he is examining claims that fans who purchased Category 1 seats — some costing more than $10,000 — were left with inferior views after FIFA adjusted stadium seat maps following the original sales. Those seats are alleged to have been quietly reclassified into sections originally designated as Category 2.

“I will work to ensure that FIFA is engaging in ethical and honest business practices so that Texas fans are treated fairly,” Paxton said. “Sports have a unique power to bring people together, and FIFA must understand that Texans take their competition — and their consumer rights — seriously.”

Despite the investigation, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has signalled that the organisation remains unconcerned by potential legal scrutiny over its ticket sales practices.

Houston will host matches involving Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo, while England and Lionel Messi’s Argentina are both scheduled to play in Dallas — meaning the two most high-profile venues in Texas are at the centre of the ticketing controversy.

Compounding the organisers’ concerns, local meteorologists have forecast up to a 70 per cent chance of thunder and lightning in Houston ahead of Sunday’s Group E opener between Germany and Curacao at Houston Stadium. Up to three inches of rainfall is expected, with isolated areas potentially receiving nearly double that amount early next week.

The stadium is equipped with a retractable roof, but officials are more concerned about travel disruption for supporters making their way to the game. England’s recent friendly against Costa Rica in Florida was already delayed by severe rain, and Houston’s position on the Gulf Coast makes it one of the most weather-exposed host cities in the tournament.

Houston officials have spent months preparing for a combination of intense summer heat and tropical storms. Strict lightning protocols will be enforced at the downtown Fan Festival, and visitors attending outdoor venues have been warned to prepare for sudden weather shifts.