The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first-ever 48-team extravaganza co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, is generating unprecedented hype, and tickets are flying off the virtual shelves faster than a Mbappé sprint. If you’re one of the millions of fans around the world eager to know the opening date for the 2026 World Cup early ticket draw or how to join the FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket lottery, you’re in the right place.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Early Ticket Draw entry period is now open through 31 October at 11 AM ET (16:00 CET), so fans can register for World Cup tickets for the qualified teams in tournaments.
On October 28, FIFA will add 1 million tickets for the 2026 World Cup in the second sales phase.
The first-ever Visa Presale Draw has closed its entry phase, with notifications being sent out since late September. The next major chance—the Early Ticket Draw—begins in just two days.
This guide covers everything you need: exact opening dates, step-by-step entry details, price ranges, and insider tips to improve your chances of scoring tickets to iconic matches at venues like MetLife Stadium or Estadio Azteca. Act quickly and dive into the football excitement!
What Is the Early Ticket Draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
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The Early Ticket Draw is Phase 2 of FIFA’s multi-stage ticket sales process, designed to give fans a fair shot at premium matches before general sales hit in 2026.
Unlike the sold-out Visa Presale, which saw 4.5 million entries by mid-September, this draw aims to reach a wider audience, including those who missed the initial round.
Winners can buy up to four tickets per match across various categories, ranging from affordable Category 4 seats at $15 for group stage games to premium VIP Category 1 seats priced at $990.
Why join now? This phase focuses on high-demand games like the opener in Mexico City on June 11, 2026, or the final in New Jersey on July 19, 2026, where resale prices might soar past $38,000 later. It’s your best chance for affordable tickets before the tournament grows to 104 matches across 16 stadiums.
When Does the 2026 World Cup Early Ticket Draw Open?
Mark your calendars: The entry period for the Early Ticket Draw officially opens on Monday, October 27, 2025, and closes on Friday, October 31, 2025. This five-day window allows fans to select preferred matches, categories, and quantities via FIFA’s online portal.
Notifications for successful applicants will begin in mid-November 2025, giving winners 72 hours to complete purchases. If you’re unsuccessful, don’t sweat—Phase 3 (General Public Random Selection Draw) follows after the December 2025 team draw, and first-come-first-served sales ramp up in early 2026.
For real-time updates, FIFA’s ticketing hub refreshes daily, but as of today, no extensions are announced—enter promptly to avoid last-minute rushes.
How to Check If the Early Ticket Draw Has Opened (Step-by-Step Guide)
Wondering how to verify the draw’s status or monitor announcements? FIFA keeps things transparent but digital-first. Here’s a foolproof checklist to stay ahead:
- Visit the Official FIFA Ticketing Portal: Head to FIFA.com/tickets (or search “FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets”). The homepage banner will flash “Early Ticket Draw Open” starting October 27, with a countdown timer during the lead-up. Bookmark it and enable notifications for instant alerts.
- Sign In or Create a FIFA ID: If you haven’t already, register for a free FIFA ID—it’s mandatory for entries and required for all phases. Log in to view personalized draw status, past applications, and upcoming deadlines.
- Subscribe to FIFA Newsletters: On the portal, opt into email/SMS updates. FIFA sends draw-specific blasts, like the one confirming the October 27 opener. Pro tip: Check your spam folder, as high-traffic phases overwhelm inboxes.
- Follow Official Social Channels: Monitor @FIFAWorldCup on X (Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok for live announcements. Recent posts teased the draw’s launch, with videos explaining entry. Use hashtags like #WorldCup2026Tickets for fan tips.
- Use FIFA’s Ticket App: Download the FIFA app (iOS/Android) for push notifications on draw openings. It syncs with your ID for seamless tracking—ideal for on-the-go checks.
- Cross-Check Reliable Sources: Sites like BBC Sport or The Athletic often mirror FIFA updates. Avoid unofficial resellers; stick to FIFA to dodge scams.
By following these steps, you’ll never miss a beat—fans who checked daily during the Visa Presale reported 20% higher success rates.
How to Enter the Early Ticket Draw: A Simple 5-Minute Process
Once open on October 27, entering is straightforward:
- Log In to FIFA.com/Tickets: Use your FIFA ID.
- Select Matches and Categories: Choose up to 20 preferences (e.g., USA vs. Mexico group game or knockout semis). Review dynamic pricing: Group stage ~$15-$305; Final up to $6,730.
- Submit Your Entry: No fee to enter—it’s a random selection. Specify ticket quantity (1-4 per match).
- Wait for Results: Mid-November emails confirm wins; pay via Visa (sponsor perks include miles redemption).
- Complete Purchase: Use the FIFA app for digital tickets—scalable and secure.
Entry is global, but host nation fans (US, Canada, Mexico) get no priority—it’s pure luck. Vancouver and Toronto matches sold out fastest in Phase 1, so target them early.
Ticket Prices and What to Expect in the Draw
Expect variety:
- Category 4 (Budget): $15-$100 (upper tiers, great for families).
- Category 1 (Premium): $200-$990 (midfield views).
- Hospitality: $1,350+ (VIP with perks).
Dynamic pricing adjusts with demand—opener tickets could hit $1,825 for prime seats. With 2.5 million+ tickets available overall, the draw allocates ~500,000 here.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Chances and Avoid Pitfalls
- Enter Early: Slots fill in hours—set a reminder for 12:01 AM ET on October 27.
- Diversify Choices: Mix popular (final) and niche (group stage in Kansas City) to improve odds.
- Visa Perks: Cardholders get bonus entries; redeem miles for packages.
- Scam Alert: Only use FIFA—resale platform launches 2026 with 15% fees.
- Plan Ahead: Pair with visa apps; tickets boost approvals for international fans.
FAQ: 2026 World Cup Early Ticket Draw Essentials
When exactly does the Early Ticket Draw open?
Entry starts October 27, 2025, and ends October 31, 2025, so fans can visit and book the final ticket.
How do I know if I’ve won the draw?
FIFA emails mid-November; log in to your account for status.
Can I enter if I missed the Visa Presale?
Yes! The Early Draw is open to all with a FIFA ID—no prior entry needed.
Are there fees to enter the draw?
No entries are free, but winners pay face value plus any taxes.
What if I don’t win—when’s the next chance?
Phase 3 after the December draw; general sales in Q1 2026.
The 2026 World Cup is set to be football’s grandest stage yet—secure your piece of history with the Early Ticket Draw.
