FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets: Football! This single word is enough to stir up a storm in the hearts of millions of people. And when the biggest football event, the FIFA World Cup, approaches, the entire world comes under one umbrella. The fever, passion, and excitement surrounding this 32-day World Cup keep rising. The year 2026 is going to be a special year for football lovers. This year will be the 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup, which will be held across three countries—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—for the first time in history.
Not only that, but it is going to be the biggest World Cup ever, with 48 teams participating. And who does not dream of being a part of this huge event, sitting in the stadium gallery, and watching the game live?
Why is the 2026 World Cup so special?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is not just a tournament but a historic event. Here are some of the reasons why:
- Three Host Countries: For the first time in history, three countries have hosted the World Cup together. This will provide a great opportunity to combine North American culture, tradition, and love of football.
- 48 Team Participation: This World Cup will feature 48 teams, up from 32 in previous editions. This will give more countries the opportunity to prove themselves on the World Cup stage and increase the excitement and competition of the tournament.
- 16 Host Cities: The World Cup matches will be hosted by 11 cities in the United States, 3 in Mexico, and 2 in Canada. Each city has its own history, culture, and attractions that will offer spectators a different experience.
- More Matches: As the number of teams increases, matches will also increase. A total of 104 games will be held, allowing more football to be enjoyed by the spectators.
For all these reasons, getting tickets for the 2026 World Cup will be a memorable experience for any football fan.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets: Registration Process
Getting tickets for the FIFA World Cup involves several steps and is conducted entirely through the official FIFA website. FIFA has specifically warned against trusting unauthorized third-party websites or agents.
Step 1: Create a FIFA ID and express interest
The first and most important step in applying for tickets is to create an account or FIFA ID on FIFA’s official website. Creating a new FIFA ID is unnecessary if you already have one.
FIFA has already opened the opportunity for football fans to register their interest. You can register your interest for 2026 World Cup tickets by logging in to your FIFA ID. The advantage of this is that you will receive all the information and updates via email as soon as the tickets go on sale.
Step 2: Understand the ticket sales stages
FIFA usually sells tickets in several stages. The 2026 World Cup will be no exception. The stages are:
- First ticket sales phase (via lottery): A specific period is set for applicants in this phase. During this period, anyone can apply for the match or package. If the number of applicants exceeds the number of tickets, then tickets are allocated through a lottery. This phase usually starts well before the start of the tournament. According to FIFA, the first ticket sales phase for the 2026 World Cup will begin on September 10, 2025
- First Ticket Sales Phase (First-Come, First-Served): After the lottery phase, unsold tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. You will need to be quick to get tickets in this phase, as tickets sell out quickly.
- Last-minute Sales Phase: Some tickets are released for sale just before the start of the tournament and also during the tournament. These tickets are also sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Step 3: Visa Presale Draw
As a long-standing partner of FIFA, Visa cardholders enjoy additional benefits when purchasing tickets. A portion of the first ticket sales phase is typically reserved exclusively for Visa cardholders. For the 2026 World Cup, a large portion of the first-stage ticket sales will also be done through the Visa Presale Draw. If you have a Visa card, your chances of getting a ticket will increase slightly.
Step 4: Application Process
Once the ticket sales phase has started, you must log in to your FIFA ID and complete the application form. Here you will need to select the following:
- Match Type: Select whether you want to apply for a specific match (Individual Match Tickets), all matches of a specific team (Team Specific Ticket Series), or all matches of a specific venue (Venue Specific Ticket Series).
- Category: Based on the stadium’s seating arrangement, there are different ticket categories (usually 1, 2, 3, and 4). Category 1 tickets have the best seats and are relatively expensive, while Category 4 tickets are the most affordable and are usually reserved for citizens of the host country.
- Number of Tickets: FIFA limits the maximum number of tickets you can apply for per match.
When filling out the application form, you must correctly provide your and your guests’ (if any) personal details.
Step 5: Payment
Suppose you are successful in the lottery or can purchase tickets on a first-come, first-served basis. In that case, you will be required to pay the full price of the ticket within the specified period. Payment must be made using a FIFA-approved payment method (e.g. Visa card).
Possible ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup
The ticket prices for the FIFA World Cup vary depending on the importance of the match, the venue, and the seat category. Although FIFA has not yet officially released the ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup, various international sports media sources have provided an approximate idea.
Opening Match: $350 – $700+
Group Stage: $80 – $260+
Round 32: $100 – $300+
Round 16 $120 – $320+
Quarter-Finals: $235 – $500+
Semi-Finals: $415 – $1120+
Final: $710 – $1900+
Note: This price list is purely approximate and subject to change. It is recommended that you wait for FIFA’s official announcement.
In addition to regular tickets, hospitality packages are available. These packages include match tickets along with luxurious hospitality, food, drinks, and other special amenities. Naturally, these packages cost much more than regular tickets.
Some tips for successfully obtaining tickets
- Prepare in advance: Create a FIFA ID for yourself and your potential companions before the ticket sales start.
- Plan your budget: Create a budget in advance, considering the possible cost of tickets, travel, accommodation, and food.
- Have multiple options: Apply for various matches or venues rather than just one. This will increase your chances of getting tickets.
- Be patient: The ticketing process is time-consuming and competitive. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t succeed on your first try. Wait for the next sales rounds.
- Trust official channels: Only buy tickets from FIFA’s official website and authorized channels. Buying tickets from any other source can result in scams.
- Travel plans: As soon as your tickets are confirmed, start planning your travel (e.g., visa, flight, and hotel booking). Have all the necessary documents ready to enter the host countries.
Host cities at a glance
The 16 cities that will host the 2026 World Cup matches are:
United States:
- Atlanta (Mercedes-Benz Stadium)
- Boston (Gillette Stadium)
- Dallas (AT&T Stadium)
- Houston (NRG Stadium)
- Kansas City (Arrowhead Stadium)
- Los Angeles (Sofie Stadium)
- Miami (Hard Rock Stadium)
- New York/New Jersey (MetLife Stadium)
- Philadelphia (Lincoln Financial Field)
- San Francisco Bay Area (Levi’s Stadium)
- Seattle (Lumen Field)
Canada:
- Toronto (BMO Field)
- Vancouver (BC Place)
Mexico:
- Guadalajara (Estadio Akron)
- Mexico City (Estadio Azteca)
- Monterrey (Estadio BBVA)
Each city is ready to welcome football fans and will win over visitors with its own culture and hospitality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question: When and where will the 2026 FIFA World Cup be held?
Answer: The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held in 16 cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. The opening match will be held at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, and the final game will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Question: How can I apply for 2026 FIFA World Cup tickets?
Answer: You must create a FIFA ID on FIFA’s official website (FIFA.com/tickets). Once ticket sales begin, you can log in with your ID and select your preferred match and category to apply.
Question: When will ticket sales begin?
Answer: As announced by FIFA, applications for the first ticket sales phase for the 2026 World Cup will begin on September 10, 2025. FIFA websites should be regularly updated.
Question: Is it mandatory to have a Visa card to purchase tickets?
Answer: Only Visa cardholders can participate in the initial ticket sales phase (Visa Presale Draw). However, other payment methods may be available in later stages.
Question: Can I apply for multiple matches?
Answer: Yes, you can apply for multiple matches according to your ability. However, if you are selected in the lottery, you may be required to pay for all the matches you applied for.
Question: Are tickets transferable?
Answer: According to FIFA’s ticketing policy, tickets are generally non-transferable. However, FIFA may launch an official reseller platform where you can sell your tickets at a set price.
Question: Will separate tickets be required for children?
Answer: Yes, regardless of age, a valid ticket will be required for each person entering the stadium.
Conclusion
It is difficult to describe the feeling of sitting in the stadium gallery and supporting your favorite team at the FIFA World Cup. It is a dream, an emotion, and an experience to remember for a lifetime. The 2026 World Cup, with its grandeur and innovation, is going to be an unforgettable chapter for football lovers.
By following the information and guidelines provided in this article, you can, too, be a proud witness to this historic moment. So without further ado, create your FIFA ID today and start preparing to get your dream tickets. Good luck!
Hi, I’m M Saif, a digital marketer with a strong focus on SEO and content writing. I help businesses improve their online visibility, drive organic traffic, and create engaging content that converts. With a results-driven approach, I work on strategies that not only boost rankings but also deliver real value to audiences.