The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the most expansive and in-demand tournament in football history. With 48 teams, 104 matches, and over six million tickets expected to be sold, FIFA is rolling out a ticketing program designed to meet both scale and global interest. Here’s a comprehensive guide for fans.
What to expect from the ticketing phases
The official ticketing program launches on September 10, 2025, with FIFA releasing tickets in multiple waves. The first phase will be a random draw lottery. Fans must register at FIFA.com and create a FIFA ID to apply. No payment is required during the application window. Only those whose applications are successful will be invited to complete the purchase.
Subsequent phases will include a first-come, first-served sale once the group stage draw is complete. This will be followed by a second-chance lottery, and eventually a last-minute sales phase just ahead of the tournament.
FIFA is also expected to reintroduce its official ticket resale platform, where fans can return tickets at face value for others to purchase.
Ticket prices and dynamic pricing
Ticket prices are expected to be significantly higher than those for Qatar 2022. According to bid documents and early estimates:
- Group stage tickets may range from $174 (Category 3) to over $323 (Category 1)
- Final match tickets could reach $1,550 or more, especially with dynamic pricing in place
This pricing model, new to FIFA tournaments, allows ticket costs to fluctuate based on real-time demand. While it could provide affordability for lower-profile matches, many fans are concerned it will make marquee games out of reach.
One notable exception: tickets allocated to national supporter sections via official football associations will not be subject to dynamic pricing.
Hospitality and premium packages
For fans looking to skip the general ticket queue, FIFA is offering hospitality packages through its partner, On Location. These range from $5,300 to over $73,000, depending on the game, city, and amenities included. Options may feature:
- Premium match seating
- Lounge access and gourmet catering
- Official merchandise and concierge service
- Bundled hotel and transportation options
For example, a semifinals week package in Dallas may include luxury accommodations, high-end transport, and exclusive matchday access—all starting around $14,000.
Ticket supply by city
The United States will host 78 matches, with each American host city receiving between five and nine games. The largest allocations include:
- Dallas: 9 matches, including a semifinal
- New York/New Jersey: 8 matches, including the final
- Atlanta and Miami: semifinal and third-place playoff, respectively
Other host cities, including Kansas City, Philadelphia, and San Francisco, will each host several games. The use of large NFL stadiums, many with capacities exceeding 70,000, means more tickets will be available than in previous tournaments. Still, knockout games are expected to sell out quickly.
Key dates to remember
- September 10, 2025: First lottery application phase opens
- Late 2025: Final draw confirms specific team matchups
- Early 2026: First-come sale begins, with additional lotteries to follow
- Spring to summer 2026: Last-minute sales and resales
- June 11, 2026: Opening match kicks off in Mexico City
- July 19, 2026: Final match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey
FIFA urges fans to register now at FIFA.com/tickets and to watch for email updates. With record-setting demand anticipated, even early-round tickets may be hard to come by.
Whether you’re following your national team, attending a local match, or splurging on a VIP experience, one thing is clear: start planning now and move quickly when sales open.
