The 2026 FIFA World Cup isn’t just building hype for epic matches, massive stadiums, and 48-team drama — it’s also sparking one of the most heated debates in modern soccer history: how much cheering from the stands should cost. In a major turn this week, FIFA backtracked on plans for dynamic pricing on all 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket Sales, reassuring fans that many seats will remain at fixed-price rates.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup schedule and group draw now announced, fans can start applying for specific matches beginning December 11, 2025, when entries open at 11:00 a.m. ET / 17:00 CET via FIFA’s ticket portal.
This could mean that attending the world’s biggest football event remains within reach for everyday supporters. On top of that, the third phase ticket sales window — the “Random Selection Draw” — opens 11 December 2025, offering fans a fresh opportunity to secure tickets through official channels rather than pricey resale markets.
“A big congratulations to all the fans who have secured their tickets already. For those still waiting, a fresh chance opens on Thursday, 11 December, shortly after the Final Draw in Washington, D.C.,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said while commenting in World Cup draw on the start of the third ticket-sales phase.
With demand skyrocketing and resale prices already climbing steeply for high-profile matches, acting quickly and smartly might be the best chance for many to catch the action live.
2026 FIFA World Cup ticket Sales – Key dates, prices and more
Table of Contents
The past week brought several important developments regarding 2026 World Cup ticketing, especially around pricing, sale phases, and FIFA’s revised approach to dynamic pricing.
1. FIFA Steps Back From Full Dynamic Pricing
FIFA has confirmed that it will not apply dynamic pricing to all 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket Sales categories. After strong fan backlash, FIFA said it will keep fixed-price tickets for several fan categories so prices don’t surge uncontrollably.
However, some premium or high-demand matches may still use partial variable pricing.
2. Next Ticket Sale Phase Opens December 11
The Random Selection Draw window opens 11 December 2025, giving fans their final best chance to buy cheap tickets at the official price instead of paying resale premiums.
Earlier phases (Visa presales, early registration phases) have already closed.
3. Official Price Structure (Current Guidance)
FIFA’s price catalog still shows the standard Category 1–4 ticket tiers.
Entry-level Cheapest group stage tickets begin around $60 USD, depending on venue and match and Best Final Ticket is available Up to $7,875. Premium matches and knockout rounds will naturally cost more.
| Match Type | Category 1 (Best) | Category 4 (Cheapest) |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage Ticket | Up to $805 | From $60 |
| Round of 32 Ticket | $400 – $750 | $105 – $185 |
| Round of 16 Ticket | $620 – $980 | $170 – $260 |
| Quarterfinal Ticket | $1,265 – $1,775 | $275 – $410 |
| Semifinal Ticket | $2,895 – $3,295 | $420 – $455 |
| Third Place Ticket | $1,070 | $165 |
| Final Ticket | Up to $7,875 | From $2,030 |
4. Secondary Market Prices Are Rising Fast
Resale platforms and ticket marketplaces show a wide price range:
- Group matches: $60 to several hundred USD
- Host-nation matches (USA / Mexico / Canada): significantly higher
- Knockout rounds + Final: in the thousands depending on demand
These are NOT official FIFA prices — they’re marketplace listings.
5. Marketplace Status
FIFA’s official ticket portal is temporarily in transition as sale phases change.
Meanwhile, resale platforms continue to list thousands of tickets at inflated prices.
Media also reports that nearly two million tickets have already been allocated or sold through earlier phases.
6. Fan Reaction This Week
News outlets heavily covered:
- Anger toward dynamic pricing
- Concerns about affordability
- Calls for more clarity from FIFA
FIFA’s revised stance eased some criticism, but fans still request transparency.
7. What Fans Should Do Now
- Register on FIFA.com/tickets
- Enter the Random Selection Draw on December 11
- Prepare your budget: resale prices are far higher than official ones
- Avoid unauthorized sellers
2026 FIFA World Cup ticket Sales Price Quick FAQ
Is dynamic pricing gone?
Not fully — but FIFA confirmed it will NOT be used for all 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket Sales, and many affordable fixed-price seats will remain.
When do World Cup 2026 ticket sales begin?
The first sale phase started on 10 September 2025 (Visa-cardholder presale draw).
The next big phase — the Random Selection Draw — opens on 11 December 2025.
What ticket packages are available for World Cup 2026?
Fans can get standard match-tickets (group stage, knockout, final) and also hospitality / premium packages via official hospitality partner on FIFA.com.
What is the price range for World Cup 2026 tickets?
Basic group-stage tickets start at USD 60.
For high-demand games / final, premium tickets could go up to USD 6,730.
Can I buy World Cup 2026 tickets via Ticketmaster or only via FIFA’s official site?
The official and recommended place to buy tickets is the official portal on FIFA website (FIFA.com/tickets). Third-party resale platforms may appear later — but official sales begin and are managed via FIFA only.
What is the “lottery” or “draw” method for tickets?
For non-hospitality tickets, sale phases are run via draw entries / random selection, not first-come. For example, the Visa Presale Draw (September), Early Ticket Draw (late October), and now the Random Selection Draw (starting 11 Dec).
If I’m buying from India (or outside North America), does the price differ?
FIFA lists ticket prices in USD, not in local currency. For international buyers including those from India, the cost in INR (or local currency) will depend on prevailing exchange rates + possible travel / visa / hospitality costs. Official ticket prices remain same globally.
What about tickets for Canada / USA / Mexico — any different rules or prices?
Host-country residents (USA, Canada, Mexico) got preferential access during early phases. But ticket categories and base prices remain same — $60 upward.
After group draw (5 Dec 2025), anyone can apply for Individual Match tickets or Match Specific ticket via Random Selection Draw.
