Everything You Need to Know about FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticketing Programme Launches in September. The FIFA World Cup 2026, set to be the largest and most inclusive tournament in football history, is just around the corner.
Hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this landmark event will feature 48 teams, 104 matches, and an expected 6.5 million fans filling stadiums from June 11 to July 19, 2026. With the ticketing programme officially launching on September 10, 2025, excitement is building for what FIFA President Gianni Infantino has called “the biggest and greatest sporting event ever.”
This comprehensive guide dives into the ticketing process, key dates, and insider tips to help you secure your spot at this historic tournament, ensuring you’re ready to witness football greatness in North America.
Overview of the FIFA World Cup 2026
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks several historic firsts. It’s the first time three nations—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—will co-host the tournament, with 16 host cities across the continent. The event will also introduce an expanded format, increasing from 32 to 48 teams, resulting in a new round of 32 in the knockout stage and a total of 104 matches.
The tournament kicks off at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026, and culminates with the final at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey on July 19, 2026. This expanded format and multi-nation hosting promise an unparalleled in-stadium experience for fans worldwide.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticketing Programme: Key Details
FIFA has announced that the ticketing programme for the 2026 World Cup will officially launch on September 10, 2025, with a phased release system to manage the anticipated high demand. Here’s what you need to know about the ticketing process:
Phased Ticket Release System
Due to the massive scale of the tournament, FIFA is implementing a structured, multi-phase ticket release system to ensure fairness and accessibility. The process begins with a random lottery phase starting on September 10, 2025, where fans can apply for tickets without the pressure of a first-come, first-served rush.
Subsequent phases will include a mix of lottery and first-come, first-served sales, continuing until the final match in July 2026. Each phase may differ in purchasing processes, payment methods, and ticket types, with detailed information to be released closer to each phase.
To participate, fans must:
- Register on FIFA’s official website (FIFA.com/tickets) to create a FIFA ID or update your existing account.
- Opt into priority ticketing communications to stay informed about key dates and processes.
- Apply for tickets during the first lottery phase starting September 10, 2025, using their FIFA ID.
Types of Tickets Available
FIFA offers various ticket options to cater to different fan preferences:
- Individual Match Tickets: For specific games, ideal for fans targeting key matches like the opening game or the final. Prices for group stage matches are expected to start around $70–$305 USD for Category 3 seats, based on previous tournaments.
- Team-Specific Tickets: Follow your favorite team through the group stage and potentially beyond, with packages covering up to four or eight matches.
- Venue-Specific Tickets: Attend all matches at a single stadium, ranging from 4–9 games depending on the venue.
- Hospitality Packages: Premium experiences with prices starting at $1,350 for single-match packages and up to $73,200 for exclusive offerings, including access to all U.S. matches or the final. These packages, offered through FIFA’s partner On Location, include premium seating, exclusive hospitality areas, and collectible gifts.
FIFA+ Collect Marketplace
A novel addition to the 2026 ticketing process is the FIFA+ Collect marketplace, which allows fans to purchase digital collectibles that grant a “Right to Buy” (RTB) tickets. This presale-like opportunity gives fans early access to tickets before the general public, though FIFA advises caution due to potential scams on secondary markets. Always purchase through official channels to avoid fraudulent tickets.
Hospitality Packages Now Available
As of July 14, 2025, FIFA’s official hospitality partner, On Location, has launched premium hospitality packages for matches in all three host countries. These include:
- Four-Match Series: Access to four select games, starting at $5,300 per person.
- Venue Series: All matches at one of the 11 U.S. host cities, starting at $8,275.
- Follow My Team Series: Follow a specific team through the group stage and one knockout match, starting at $6,750 (not available for host nations).
These packages offer premium seating, exclusive experiences, and FIFA World Cup 2026-specific collector’s items. Fans can secure these through FIFAWorldCup.com/Hospitality or authorized On Location agents.
Key Dates for FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticketing
- September 10, 2025: First ticket draw application window opens. Fans must register on FIFA.com/tickets to participate.
- December 2025: World Cup draw finalizes team groups, match schedules, and venues.
- March 2026: FIFA Play-Off Tournament determines the final two qualifying teams.
- June 11–July 19, 2026: Tournament duration, with ticket sales continuing in phases until the final match.
How to Secure Your FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets
To maximize your chances of attending, follow these steps:
- Create a FIFA ID: Visit FIFA.com/tickets to register or update your account. Opt into priority ticketing communications to receive updates.
- Apply Early: The first lottery phase on September 10, 2025, offers equal chances regardless of when you apply within the window, so don’t delay.
- Use Official Channels: Purchase tickets only through FIFA.com/tickets or authorized partners like On Location to avoid scams. FIFA has warned against unofficial sites like Vivid Seats, StubHub, and viagogo, which have listed tickets as high as £46,000 for the final, despite official sales not yet starting.
- Consider Hospitality Packages: For a premium experience, explore On Location’s offerings, which include flexible payment plans (e.g., two installments: 2/3 at purchase, 1/3 by January 15, 2026).
- Stay Informed: Follow FIFA’s official channels and register for updates to stay ahead of new ticket phases and announcements.
Challenges and Considerations
High Demand and Scalping Concerns
With 6.5 million fans expected, demand for tickets will be intense. FIFA’s phased release aims to manage this, but fans should be wary of unofficial resale sites. In 2018, FIFA filed a criminal complaint against Viagogo for fraudulent ticket sales, and similar risks exist for 2026. Always verify ticket authenticity through FIFA’s official platforms.
Immigration Policies
Recent U.S. immigration policies, including the “One Big Beautiful Bill” with a $250 visa integrity fee, have raised concerns about deterring international fans. This could impact attendance, particularly for fans from countries like Iran, whose team has already qualified. Plan travel and visa applications early to avoid complications.
Dynamic Pricing
While FIFA hasn’t confirmed dynamic pricing for 2026, posts on X suggest it may be implemented, as seen in the recent Club World Cup, where prices fluctuated based on demand. This could affect affordability, so budget accordingly.
Why The FIFA World Cup 2026 is a Must-Attend Event
The 2026 World Cup is set to redefine global football. With 48 teams, the tournament will feature more diversity and competition than ever before. The U.S., hosting the majority of matches, including all knockout rounds from the quarterfinals, is seeing a surge in football interest, fueled by stars like Lionel Messi at Inter Miami.
Canada and Mexico, each hosting 13 matches, add cultural richness to this tri-nation spectacle. From the vibrant atmosphere in Mexico City to the grand finale in New York/New Jersey, this tournament promises unforgettable moments for fans.
FAQ: FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticketing
Q: When do FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets go on sale?
A: The ticketing programme launches on September 10, 2025, with a random lottery phase. Additional phases will follow until July 2026.
Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Register on FIFA.com/tickets, create a FIFA ID, and apply during the lottery phase or subsequent sales. Hospitality packages are available through FIFAWorldCup.com/Hospitality.
Q: Are there risks with buying tickets from unofficial sources?
A: Yes, FIFA warns against unofficial sites like Vivid Seats and StubHub, which may sell fraudulent tickets. Stick to official channels to ensure validity.
Q: What are hospitality packages, and what do they include?
A: Hospitality packages offer premium seating, exclusive experiences, and collectibles. Prices start at $1,350 for single matches and go up to $73,200 for premium series.
Q: Can I follow my team through the tournament?
A: Yes, the Follow My Team series allows you to track your team through the group stage and one knockout match, starting at $6,750. Refunds are available if your team doesn’t qualify.
Q: How many tickets can I buy?
A: You can purchase up to six tickets per match, with a maximum of 60 across the tournament, based on 2022 guidelines.
Conclusion
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be a historic celebration of football, uniting fans across North America and beyond. With the ticketing programme launching on September 10, 2025, now is the time to prepare. Register on FIFA.com/tickets, explore hospitality packages, and stay vigilant against unofficial sellers to secure your place at this monumental event.
Whether you’re cheering in Mexico City, Vancouver, or New York/New Jersey, the 2026 World Cup promises an unforgettable experience. Start planning today to be part of football history.
Disclaimer: This article provides information and analysis based on publicly available sources and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to degrade or misrepresent any individual, organization, or event. All information is sourced from reputable websites and is accurate as of July 17, 2025. Readers are encouraged to verify details through official channels like FIFA.com/tickets.
Sources:
- The Economic Times: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com
- FIFA Official Website: https://www.fifa.com
- Al Jazeera: https://www.aljazeera.com
- ESPN: https://www.espn.com
- The World Cup Guide: https://www.theworldcupguide.com
- Sports Illustrated: https://www.si.com
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org
- On Location: https://onlocationexp.com
- Seattle FWC 26: https://www.seattlefwc26.org
- Zawya: https://www.zawya.com
- Merca20: https://www.merca20.com
- Emirates24|7: https://www.emirates247.com
- Socceroos: https://www.socceroos.com.au