The ultrarich are avoiding crowds at airports by flying private to the World Cup.
Natalie B. Compton
For the average soccer fan, the quest for 2026 World Cup tickets started last year when FIFA opened its Kafkaesque lottery system. Millions submitted bids as fast as their fingers could type in hopes of securing a reasonably priced seat to the sport’s world’s biggest tournament, then waited months to learn the outcome of their applications.
The process has been far less stressful for the event’s wealthier fans. According to travel planners for the ultrarich, there’s no rush to secure tickets or book trips when money is no object.
“They know that at their level they can get the top, top-tier kinds of tickets and a private heli-transfer there and all the VIP access,” said Jackie DeAntonis, a private relationship manager for the higher-end division of luxury travel company Scott Dunn, which requires clients spend a minimum of $100,000 (R1.65 million) per year on trips. “And a lot of that seems to come at the last minute.”
