How to buy World Cup 2026 tickets

TICKETS for the Fifa World Cup 2026 on sale now, but with mandatory IDs, lotteries and releases in phases, securing them is no walk in the park.

Spanning the United States, Canada and Mexico, here’s what you need to know to ensure you don’t miss your chance to experience the beautiful game’s biggest international tournament.

With millions of fans worldwide vying for seats, understanding the ticket acquisition process is absolutely crucial.

The competition will be fierce, prices will be eye-watering, and timing will be everything.

Heimo Schirgi, Fifa World Cup 26 chief operating officer said: “We already have seen massive interest from around the world for this tournament, and especially from within the host countries as Canada, Mexico and the United States prepare to host the biggest Fifa World Cup yet.

“This second phase, with its host country domestic exclusivity time slot, will allow us to say thank you to these local fans, while ensuring global opportunity as well.”

When did World Cup 2026 tickets go on sale?

World Cup ticket sales started with Phase 1, the Visa Presale Draw, which ran between September 10 and 19, 2025.

It was exclusively for Visa cardholders and was limited to fans who were selected through a lottery system.

Over a million tickets were released in Phase 1, with the overall capacity expected to exceed 7 million seats across all venues.

Phase 2, the Early Ticket Draw, runs from October 27 to 31, 2025 at 3 pm GMT (11 am ET), allowing fans to apply for another million tickets via Fifa.com/tickets.

Either log in using your account or visit the Fifa website and create one – this unique ID is required to participate in any ticket lottery.

If you are randomly selected in the draw, Fifa will notify you via email, which will include a designated date and time window when you can access the purchasing portal – this slot typically lasts 24 to 72 hours.

During your assigned time slot, log into the Fifa ticketing portal, where tickets can sell out very quickly.

Following the general entry period, host-nation residents – Canada, Mexico and the US – have a 72-hour priority window starting November 12 for 75% of single-match tickets in their respective countries.

After this period, both host-nation and global fans who entered the draw will be eligible for a random time slot to purchase remaining tickets. 

Additional tickets will be made available in subsequent phases.

We already have seen massive interest from around the world for this tournament

Heimo Schirgi, Fifa World Cup 26 chief operating officer

How much will World Cup tickets cost?

World Cup 2026 tickets will command premium prices reflecting the tournament’s expanded format and increased demand.

Tickets are being sold in four categories, with prices starting at $60 for group-stage games and going up to $6,730 for the final.

This edition will also use dynamic pricing, which could change rates depending on demand – something Oasis fans learnt the hard way.

Factor in travel, accommodation, and local expenses for a realistic total investment calculation.

The tournament’s North American locations add complexity and cost to international travel plans.

For some consumers heading into the tournament, visas will be a particular concern, especially as the USA cracks down on immigration.

There are also more traditional concerns, such as who, when and where, and none of those will be answered until the draw on December 5.

Fifa knows many fans won’t fret about those answers – they just want tickets now and will figure out the rest later.

It is also important to remember that currency exchange rates and accommodation scarcity will impact your overall budget significantly.

Understanding the lottery system

Fifa’s lottery system democratises ticket distribution, but it’s essentially a high-stakes gamble with your World Cup dreams.

This random selection process ensures fairness but removes any control from the equation.

The lottery operates across multiple phases, with different match categories and price points available.

Premium matches, such as the opening ceremony, semi-finals and final, will attract millions of applications due to their limited availability.

Your chances improve slightly for group stage matches, particularly those not featuring major footballing nations.

Strategic lottery applications require careful consideration.

You’ll need to prioritise which matches matter most, as successful applications are legally binding purchases.

The system doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your first choice – or any choice.

There are other ways to get tickets other than shelling out big bucks.

American Airlines announced last month that its AAdvantage loyalty program members can redeem miles for World Cup tickets.

The scheme started on October 13 for executive platinum and concierge key members, on October 14 for platinum pro, platinum and gold members, and October 15 by all members.

FIFA’s “Right to Buy” system explained

FIFA’s “Right to Buy” system offers guaranteed ticket access, but you can expect to pay significantly more for this privilege.

This premium pathway bypasses the lottery uncertainty but comes with substantial financial commitments.

The Right to Buy system typically includes mandatory hospitality packages, accommodation bookings, and transportation arrangements.

These comprehensive packages ensure your World Cup experience, but at costs that can easily reach thousands of pounds per person.

Consider this option if budget isn’t your primary concern and guaranteed attendance outweighs cost considerations.

The peace of mind comes with a hefty price tag, but it eliminates the stress of lottery uncertainty.

Are hospitality packages worth it?

Hospitality packages represent the most expensive but most comprehensive World Cup experience.

These premium offerings combine match tickets with exclusive amenities, dining experiences, and VIP treatment.

Package options range from basic hospitality additions to full luxury experiences, including private transportation, premium accommodations, and exclusive venue access.

Package options range from basic hospitality additions to full luxury experiences, including private transportation, premium accommodations, and exclusive venue access.

The costs reflect the comprehensive nature of these offerings but guarantee an unforgettable tournament experience.

For serious football and soccer enthusiasts with substantial budgets, hospitality packages offer the ultimate World Cup experience.

The premium you pay extends beyond just match access to encompass the entire tournament atmosphere.

Avoid getting scammed in the resale market

Third-party ticket retailers present significant risks despite apparent convenience.

While some legitimate secondary market options exist, this territory is fraught with potential scams and overpriced offerings.

Authorised Fifa partners represent the safest third-party option, but even these come with substantial mark-ups over face value.

Unauthorised resellers pose serious risks, including invalid tickets, fraud, and potential legal complications at venue entry points.

If considering third-party options, verify authorisation status through Fifa’s official channels.

The savings rarely justify the risks involved with unauthorised retailers.

How to maximise your chances

Successful World Cup ticket acquisition demands strategic thinking and multiple backup plans.

The most prepared fans pursue several simultaneous pathways to maximise their opportunities.

Register for every legitimate opportunity: FIFA’s general sale, Visa presales, lottery systems, and authorised partner offerings.

Diversifying your approach significantly improves your overall chances of securing tickets.

Consider flexibility in your match selections, travel dates, and venue preferences.

The most rigid plans often result in disappointment, while adaptable fans find unexpected opportunities.