As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup (which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico), football supporters around the world are gearing up for applications for tickets to the most popular sporting event on the planet.
If you are one of the fans looking forward to all of the action, it is important to understand the applications for tickets for the 2026 World Cup process to provide yourself the best opportunity to experience history unfold.
How the Ticket Applications Process Will Work
Before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA made changes to the ticket action system for the expanded 48-team World Cup, so we hope to improve transparency and accessibility. The new phased approach will help prevent scalping and provide a better attempt at accommodating as many supporters from around the world as possible.
Ticket application phases
- Registration: Yes, you’re not able to buy tickets yet. You still need to register an account in FIFA’s official ticketing system. Registration is usually started months before general sales open and is the beginning of each subsequent phase.
- Application window: The actual first ticket sales phase is going to be via a randomized draw. During this phase, fans can apply for a match, team series, or stadium series (depending on what event you are applying to) without the “first come, first from” approach.
- Draw/Notification: If demand exceeds supply (something expected for major matches), there will be a lottery in which successful applicants will be chosen at random. Successful applicants will be notified via email, and payment will be collected automatically.
- First come, first served: If you were not chosen, there may be some first come, first served tickets (again, depending on the event). These will then be released on a rolling basis, and action must be taken quickly as any remaining tickets may sell out from a few to minutes of being posted.
- Resale site: FIFA is also building on its resale site for the first time, which essentially allows fans to purchase and resell at the price paid (face-value). This helps get the ticket into the hands of genuine supporters, thereby limiting the work of scalpers.
What Types of Tickets Exist?
Fans can apply for a variety of ticket products to suit their needs:
| Ticket Type | Description |
| Individual Match | Tickets for a specific match, including the final |
| Team Specific | Follow your favorite team through all its matches |
| Venue Series | Attend all games played at a chosen stadium |
| Accessibility | Special options for fans with disabilities |
| Hospitality | Premium packages with exclusive amenities |
Each category has defined pricing, with capped pricing on entry-level tickets for group-stage matches.
Guidelines for a Successful Application
- Apply early: These windows of time are fixed—set up calendar reminders so you don’t miss dates.
- Be flexible: You can list alternative matches or categories of tickets which helps mitigate risks.
- Use the official FIFA website: Using unofficial ticket sellers and resellers is risky and only some people will be successful.
- Complete your payment details: Abuse of the payment details could result in the loss of applications.
- Check your messages: Regularly check your email account, including the junk mail folder, for information sent to you from FIFA.
When can you apply?
FIFA will begin the ticketing registration process in early 2025, and the first application windows will open sept. 10 of the same year. As of July 2025, there are other phases and resale opportunities available which will increase as the tournament approaches. The official site will have the most up-to-date dates and conditions.
Ticket Pricing and Regional Factors
The ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup depend on the stage and location. Ticket prices are expected to be higher for the knockout rounds and finals. Group-stage matches will provide opportunities for lower-priced tickets. Matches in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas may have more demand which will influence the price.
Be Prepared, Be Persistent
With demand worldwide at an all-time high, successful ticket applications for the 2026 World Cup will require preparation, diligence, and some luck. With a little effort and by using official sources, fans can improve their odds of being part of one of the largest celebrations of sport on the planet. If you hope to experience amazing live moments, start your ticket application process today, the journey to 2026 has already begun.