The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the most ambitious football tournament ever, featuring 48 teams playing 104 matches across three countries. It’s essential to have detailed information about the 2026 FIFA World Cup Ticket Process.
Here’s how to buy and secure tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and witness this historic event, a process that may seem complex but is definitely achievable. With ticket sales already underway and prices ranging from $60 to $6,730, understanding FIFA’s multi-phase ticketing system is crucial for any aspiring attendee.
Fans can secure their 2026 World Cup tickets through three application methods –
- Tickets (Multiple Phase)
- Hospitality (Available with a single or multiple match ticket package.)
- Marketplace (official tickets resale/exchange)
2026 FIFA World Cup Ticket Process Step by Step
Table of Contents
The 2026 World Cup introduces several revolutionary changes to the traditional ticketing process. For the first time, FIFA is implementing dynamic pricing based on supply and demand, meaning ticket costs will fluctuate throughout the sales process.
This system allows FIFA to maximise revenue from high-demand matches while potentially offering lower prices for less popular fixtures.
| Phase | Sales Period | Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Random Selection Draw | December 11, 2025 | Application with a lottery | It kicks off once the tournament’s final draw decides the group-stage matchups. |
| Last-Minute Sales | Closer to the tournament | First-come, first-served | The availability of inventory may vary. |
Key Innovations in 2026 Ticketing:
- Multi-country hosting across the USA, Canada, and Mexico
- Dynamic pricing model with real-time price adjustments
- Enhanced lottery system to ensure fair distribution
- Mobile-first approach with digital ticket delivery
- Comprehensive resale platform to combat fraud
Phase 1: Visa Presale Draw (September 10-19, 2025)
The journey to securing World Cup tickets begins with the Visa Presale Draw, which launched on September 10, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET. This exclusive phase is reserved for Visa cardholders and represents the first opportunity to access approximately 1 million tickets (15% of total inventory).
Step-by-Step Visa Presale Process:
Step 1: Create Your FIFA ID
- Visit FIFA.com/ticketsofficial site
- Provide email address, country/state, and preferred language
- No payment information required during registration
- Account serves as your gateway to all ticketing phases
Step 2: Enter the Visa Presale Draw
- Registration window: September 10-19, 2025
- Must be 18+ years old with valid Visa card
- Entry timing within the window doesn’t affect selection chances
- FIFA performs a $0.00 charge to verify Visa card validity
Step 3: Await Results and Purchase
- Winner notifications begin September 29, 2025
- Assigned time slots for purchases starting October 1, 2025
- Earlier time slots provide better ticket availability
- Purchase window closes October 21, 2025
| Phase | Registration Period | Winner Notification | Purchase Window | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Presale | Sept 10-19, 2025 | Sept 29, 2025 | Oct 1-21, 2025 | Visa cardholders only |
| Early Ticket Draw | Oct 27-31, 2025 | Mid-November | Nov-Dec 2025 | All payment methods |
| Random Selection | December 11, 2025 | TBD | Early 2026 | All fans |
| First-Come First-Serve | Spring 2026 | Immediate | Until sold out | All fans |
Phase 2: Early Ticket Draw (October 27-31, 2025)
The Early Ticket Draw provides a second opportunity for fans who missed the Visa presale or weren’t selected. This phase operates similarly to Phase 1 but accepts all payment methods, not just Visa cards.
Key Features of Phase 2:
- Open registration: No Visa card requirement
- Similar lottery system: Random selection process
- Purchase windows: Mid-November to early December 2025
- Expanded availability: Additional ticket allocations released
Winners receive email notifications with designated time slots for purchasing tickets. The lottery system ensures fair distribution, with all applicants having equal chances regardless of registration timing within the window.
Phase 3: Random Selection Draw (December 11, 2025)
The third phase begins after the Official World Cup Draw on December 11, 2025, in Washington, D.C. This critical date determines all group stage matchups, allowing fans to purchase tickets for specific team encounters rather than unknown fixtures.
FIFA will randomly select a limited number of applicants, grant them some or all of the tickets they requested, and charge the listed price in February. The application period runs from Dec. 11 to Jan. 13, and you can visit FIFA’s ticketing website to apply.
What Changes After the Draw:
- Known matchups: Fans can target specific games
- Dynamic pricing activation: Prices adjust based on team popularity
- Increased demand: Popular teams drive higher prices
- Strategic purchasing: Fans can plan multi-match experiences
This phase represents the last major lottery opportunity before transitioning to first-come, first-served sales in 2026.
Phase 4: First-Come, First-Served Sales (Spring 2026)
The final phase eliminates the lottery system in favour of immediate purchases. Any remaining tickets become available on a first-come, first-served basis, typically closer to the tournament start date.
Final Phase Characteristics:
- Immediate purchasing: No waiting for lottery results
- Limited availability: Most popular matches likely sold out
- Last-minute opportunities: Potential for returned or released tickets
- Official resale platform: Secondary market for verified transactions
FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticket Pricing Structure
The 2026 World Cup introduces the most comprehensive pricing structure in tournament history, with costs varying significantly based on match importance, venue, and seat location.
Complete Pricing Breakdown:
| Tournament Stage | Category 4 (Cheapest) | Category 3 | Category 2 | Category 1 (Premium) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | $60 | $120 | $180 | $230 |
| Round of 32 | $75 | $150 | $225 | $280 |
| Round of 16 | $85 | $175 | $270 | $350 |
| Quarterfinals | $140 | $290 | $450 | $550 |
| Semifinals | $200 | $450 | $700 | $800 |
| Third Place | $140 | $290 | $450 | $550 |
| Final | $400 | $1,100 | $1,800 | $2,000 |
| Final (Premium) | – | – | – | $6,730 |
Dynamic Pricing Impact
FIFA’s dynamic pricing system means these base prices can fluctuate significantly based on:
- Team popularity: Matches featuring Brazil, Argentina, or the host nations
- Venue demand: Games at prestigious stadiums like MetLife or the Rose Bowl
- Knockout stage progression: Prices increase as the tournament advances
- Remaining inventory: Supply and demand economics
Ticket Purchase Limits and Restrictions
FIFA has implemented comprehensive purchase limits to ensure fair distribution and prevent scalping:
Individual Purchase Limits:
- Maximum per match: 4 tickets for any single game
- Tournament total: Up to 40 tickets per person across all matches
- Match limit: Tickets for a maximum of 10 different matches
- ID verification: Each ticket is tied to the purchaser’s FIFA ID
Group Purchasing Strategy:
For groups larger than four people, multiple individuals must:
- Create separate FIFA ID accounts
- Enter lottery phases independently
- Coordinate purchases if selected
- Transfer tickets through official channels
Ticket Categories and Options
The 2026 World Cup offers multiple ticket purchasing approaches to accommodate different fan preferences:
Individual Match Tickets
- Single game access: Entry to one specific match
- Available phases: All four sales phases
- Price variation: Depends on teams, venue, and stage
- Flexibility: Can mix and match different matches
Team-Specific Packages
- Follow your team: All group stage matches for one team
- Early commitment: Must purchase before knowing opponents
- Continuation option: Knockout stage tickets if team advances
- Premium pricing: Higher cost due to guaranteed team access
Venue-Specific Packages
- Stadium series: Multiple matches at one venue
- Location convenience: No travel between cities required
- Varied matchups: Experience different teams and styles
- Package pricing: Often discounted versus individual tickets
Official Resale Platform and Anti-Fraud Measures
FIFA will launch an official resale platform to combat fraudulent ticket sales and provide legitimate secondary market options:
Resale Platform Features:
- Face value transactions: No inflated scalping prices
- Verified transfers: Secure ticket ownership changes
- Fan protection: Guaranteed entry with legitimate tickets
- Regional compliance: Adheres to local regulations
Anti-Fraud Measures:
- Digital tickets only: Eliminates counterfeit physical tickets
- ID verification: Tickets linked to purchaser’s identity
- Transfer restrictions: Limited resale opportunities
- Penalty enforcement: Legal action against unauthorized sales
Hospitality Packages: Premium World Cup Experiences
For fans seeking elevated experiences, FIFA hospitality packages offer comprehensive World Cup access with luxury amenities:
Hospitality Package Categories:
FIFA Pavilion Packages (Starting $1,350)
- Premium seating with enhanced sightlines
- Pre-match hospitality areas with food and beverages
- Official match programs and commemorative items
- Dedicated concierge services
Champions Club Packages (Starting $2,500)
- VIP lounge access with gourmet dining
- Premium bar service with top-shelf options
- Meeting areas for business networking
- Priority stadium entry and exit
Platinum Suites (Starting $15,000+)
- Private luxury suites with personal service
- Customised catering and beverage options
- Exclusive viewing areas with perfect sightlines
- Multi-match packages available
Technical Challenges and Solutions
The September 10 launch of Visa presale registration experienced significant technical difficulties, with fans reporting:
Common Issues:
- Extended wait times: Queue systems are overwhelmed by demand
- Website crashes: Server capacity exceeded expectations
- Error messages: Payment and registration system failures
- Mobile compatibility: App performance issues
FIFA’s Response:
- Server capacity increases: Additional infrastructure deployed
- Extended registration period: Full window remains available
- Equal opportunity assurance: Registration timing doesn’t affect chances
- Customer support expansion: Additional help desk resources
Travel and Accommodation Planning
With matches across 16 cities in three countries, travel planning becomes crucial for World Cup attendance:
Multi-City Considerations:
- Vast distances: USA venues span 2,500+ miles
- Border crossings: International travel between countries
- Transportation logistics: Flights, trains, and rental cars
- Accommodation scarcity: Hotel availability and pricing challenges
Recommended Planning Approach:
- Primary city selection: Choose 1-2 cities as base locations
- Match clustering: Target games within a reasonable travel distance
- Accommodation booking: Reserve hotels before ticket confirmation
- Transportation research: Understand inter-city travel options
Essential Tips for Ticket Success
Maximising Your Chances:
- Register immediately: Create FIFA ID account as soon as possible
- Multiple phases: Enter every applicable lottery phase
- Flexible preferences: Consider various matches and venues
- Payment readiness: Ensure cards and accounts are updated
- Official channels only: Avoid third-party ticketing sites
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Late registration: Missing phase deadlines
- Single-phase strategy: Not entering multiple lotteries
- Inflexible planning: Targeting only premium matches
- Unauthorised purchases: Using unofficial ticket sources
- Technical procrastination: Waiting until the final phase
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Ticket Process represents a complex but fair system designed to provide global fans access to football’s premier event. With proper preparation, understanding of the phases, and flexible planning, securing tickets to witness history across North America becomes an achievable goal.
Whether targeting affordable group stage matches at $60 or investing in the ultimate final experience at MetLife Stadium, the journey begins with creating your FIFA ID and entering the lottery system that will determine your World Cup destiny.
