Tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup began official sales on Wednesday, but only those selected in last month’s lottery have the initial opportunity to buy. Out of 4.5 million applicants, winners were notified via email and now have a limited window to purchase tickets.
Despite the fact that less than half of the 48-team tournament spots have been determined and the full match schedule will not be released until December, fans worldwide have shown enormous enthusiasm. Many are willing to secure their seats first and deal with details such as team assignments, match times, and locations later.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted the scale of the response, noting the high number of applicants as a testament to the global passion for football. “The whole world wants to be part of the FIFA World Cup 26,” he said, emphasizing the tournament’s inclusivity and worldwide appeal.
Ticket options and pricing
Fans can choose from four seating categories, with Category 1 representing the best locations and Category 4 covering seats higher in the stadiums. Prices begin at $60 for group-stage matches and can reach $6,730 for the final, with FIFA introducing dynamic pricing for the first time, meaning costs may change.
Alternative ways to acquire tickets include airline and corporate promotions. American Airlines AAdvantage members can redeem miles for World Cup tickets starting October 13 for top-tier members and continuing for other tiers over the following days. Verizon customers also have access to free tickets and other benefits via its app, as part of the company’s sponsorship of the tournament. Football icon David Beckham praised the initiative, noting it provides unprecedented access for fans.
Current qualified teams and fan interest
Host nations United States, Canada, and Mexico automatically qualified, along with defending champions Argentina and several other nations, including Japan, New Zealand, Iran, Uzbekistan, Jordan, South Korea, Brazil, Australia, Ecuador, Uruguay, Tunisia, Colombia, Paraguay, and Morocco. This leaves 30 spots still available for qualification.
Fans from 216 countries participated in the lottery, with the US, Mexico, and Canada generating the most interest, followed by Germany, England, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Spain, and Italy. While FIFA has not disclosed exactly how many tickets are available during this first sales window, the 104 matches across 16 North American venues provide approximately 7.1 million seats. How many of these will be sold to the public remains unclear.
Travel and logistical concerns
Potential visitors face uncertainties related to US immigration policies, which may affect international attendance. Some US host cities have acknowledged that political factors could influence the number of overseas fans traveling for matches.
Former President Donald Trump suggested that host cities might be altered if he perceives safety concerns, though the current schedule lists venues in East Rutherford, Inglewood, Foxborough, Houston, Arlington, Atlanta, Seattle, Santa Clara, Philadelphia, Kansas City, and Miami Gardens. The State Department has stressed that safety for matches, athletes, fans, and venues remains a priority and advises those needing a visa to apply promptly.
Next ticket phases and resale
FIFA plans additional sales phases, including an early ticket draw from October 27-31 and a random selection draw after the final team draw on December 5. Tickets will also be available closer to the tournament on a first-come, first-served basis, along with an official resale platform.
Some hospitality packages have already been sold, and FIFA has reiterated its promise that the tournament will bring the world together like never before. The World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026.