The number of requests for tickets to the 2026 World Cup, to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has reached half a billion as the registration window for the random selection draw closed, FIFA announced.
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FIFA reported that “within just 33 days, requests were submitted by fans living in countries and territories of all 211 national associations under FIFA,” noting that the majority of requests came from the three host countries—United States, Mexico, and Canada—followed by Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina, and Colombia.
Fans will be notified of the results of their ticket requests via email no later than 5 February.
FIFA highlighted that this number of requests “demonstrates the unprecedented global interest in this edition, which will be the first in history to feature 48 national teams.”
The match that received the highest number of ticket requests during this sales phase is Colombia vs. Portugal on Saturday, 27 June in Miami, followed by Mexico vs. South Korea (Guadalajara, Thursday, 18 June), the final (New York/New Jersey, Sunday, 19 July), the opening match between Mexico and South Africa (Mexico City, Thursday, 11 June), and the Round of 32 match in Toronto on Thursday, 2 July.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: “Half a billion ticket requests in just one month is more than a number reflecting enormous demand—it is a global statement of intent.”
Fans who were unsuccessful in this phase will have another opportunity to purchase remaining tickets closer to the tournament during the last-minute sales phase, where leftover tickets will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
FIFA also reminded fans that a match ticket does not guarantee entry into the host country, and spectators should check host country government websites for visa requirements for Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
FIFA faced criticism over ticket pricing, with fan groups calling the costs “extortionate” and “astronomical.” The European Football Supporters Association noted that prices were about five times higher than the 2022 Qatar edition.
In response, FIFA introduced a new lower-priced ticket category in December, set at $60 (51 euros) per ticket.
— AFP
