StubHub is facing a lawsuit accusing the ticket resale platform of using automated bots to purchase large quantities of 2026 World Cup tickets and resell them at significantly inflated prices, in violation of anti-scalping laws. The complaint, filed in federal court in New York, alleges that StubHub's practices deprived genuine fans of fair access to tickets.
Lawsuit Details
The lawsuit, brought by a group of consumers, claims that StubHub employed software to bypass ticket purchase limits set by FIFA, the international soccer governing body. According to the plaintiffs, StubHub then listed these tickets on its platform at prices often exceeding face value by hundreds or even thousands of dollars. One plaintiff stated, “I tried to buy tickets through the official FIFA portal but found them sold out within minutes, only to see the same seats on StubHub at triple the price.”
Alleged Violations
The suit cites violations of the federal BOTS Act, which prohibits the use of automated software to circumvent ticket purchasing limits. It also alleges breach of contract and unjust enrichment. The plaintiffs seek class-action status, representing thousands of fans who were forced to pay inflated prices or missed out on tickets altogether. StubHub has not yet filed a response, but a spokesperson previously stated that the company “complies with all applicable laws and is committed to providing a safe and reliable marketplace.”
Impact on Fans
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has generated enormous demand. FIFA allocated tickets through a lottery system, but many fans reported immediate sellouts. According to the lawsuit, StubHub allegedly listed more than 10,000 tickets for resale within hours of official release, many from accounts with no prior purchase history, suggesting bot activity. “This isn't just about profit; it's about fairness,” said John Doe, a lead plaintiff. “Fans deserve a chance to attend without being gouged.”
Broader Context
The case highlights ongoing concerns about ticket scalping in major events. In 2024, the Federal Trade Commission fined another reseller for similar practices. If successful, this lawsuit could set a precedent for stricter enforcement of the BOTS Act. StubHub, owned by Viagogo, has faced previous legal challenges over ticket resale practices in the UK and Australia.
