The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, with the United States, Canada, and Mexico gearing up to jointly stage the biggest event in global sport.
This edition will mark a number of historic firsts—not only is it the first time three nations will co-host the tournament, but it will also debut an expanded format featuring 48 teams, up from the 32 that competed in Qatar in 2022.
With matches set to be held across North America, excitement is already building—and so is the rush for tickets. Fans from around the world are eager to lock in their spot early for what promises to be a landmark tournament.
Here’s what you need to know about when tickets go on sale, how to buy them, and some key tips for securing your seat at the 2026 World Cup.
When is the 2026 World Cup?
Unlike the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which took place in November and December, the 2026 tournament will return to its traditional summer schedule, running from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
When Do Tickets For the 2026 World Cup Go On Sale?
As of early May 2025, FIFA has not yet released official details regarding ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup. However, fans can register their interest on FIFA’s official website to receive updates as soon as information becomes available.
According to the 2026 bid book, ticket sales are expected to begin sometime this year. With FIFA having already confirmed the host cities and match locations late last year, an official announcement may be just around the corner.
When sales do open, tickets are likely to be released in phases, following the format used in 2022.
2026 World Cup Ticket Release Phases Explained
The World Cup ticketing process typically unfolds in four stages. It begins with a randomized lottery phase, where fans apply for tickets and are selected at random. The second phase follows a first-come, first-served format, launched after the 48 teams have been drawn into groups.
A second lottery phase comes next, mirroring the first. Finally, the process concludes with another first-come, first-served window for any remaining tickets.
Ticket Pricing and Categories
World Cup tickets are divided into four pricing categories based on seat location. Category 1, the most expensive, typically includes seats near the halfway line. Category 2 covers the corners of the stadium and is slightly less expensive, while Category 3 includes seats behind the goals and is more affordable. Category 4, also behind the goals, is generally the least expensive and may be reserved for residents of the host country.
As expected, seats near the center of the pitch will cost more than those in the corners or behind the goals. Similarly, group stage tickets tend to be cheaper than those for the knockout rounds or final.
According to the official bid book, the cheapest ticket could cost roughly $323 while the most expensive ticket for a skybox or business suite could run $4,307.
For instance, the estimated price for a Category 1 ticket in the group stage is $323 while the estimated ticket price for a Category 3 ticket in the group stage is $174. In the final, tickets could range from $128 (Category 4) all the way to $1,550 (Category 1).
How to Purchase Tickets
How to Secure Your 2026 World Cup Tickets Online
FIFA stresses that buying tickets from unofficial websites is unsafe and that the safest way to acquire tickets is through the governing body's website.
To do this, you'll need to create a FIFA account on the official website and 'register interest' using this link. If you're interested in Official Hospitality seating, use this link to 'register interest.'
Popular payment methods accepted by FIFA are Visa and Mastercard. Should you land tickets for the World Cup, you can expect to receive confirmation via email. It's extremely important to be wary of fraudulent ticket websites that will claim to have tickets available way ahead of the actual release date next year.
Ticket Availability by Region (USA, Mexico, Canada)
How to Get Tickets for Matches in the USA, Mexico, and Canada
Sixteen stadiums will showcase the excitement of the 2026 World Cup, with iconic venues such as Estadio Azteca, MetLife Stadium (New York/New Jersey), Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta), and AT&T Stadium (Dallas) among the key locations where fans will gather.
Residents of the host countries—USA, Mexico, and Canada—are expected to have priority access to tickets, potentially with more options available and at lower prices compared to international buyers, making it more affordable for locals.
While traveling to all three host nations to watch matches may seem enticing, remember that travel expenses, including flights and accommodation, must be factored in, as the tournament spans across North America.
Ticket Reselling and Transfers
Official Guidelines for Reselling and Transferring 2026 World Cup Tickets
FIFA permits fans to resell tickets, but only through its official ticketing portal. Detailed information on FIFA's ticket transfer and resale policy, based on the 2022 World Cup, can be found here.
In Canada, for example, resellers must report the sale and pay taxes on any income generated from it.
FIFA strongly advises caution when seeking early tickets, as none are currently available. While verified sellers in the USA may claim to have tickets, it's best to wait until late 2025 and purchase through the official website to ensure a secure transaction.
Tips for Securing Tickets
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting 2026 World Cup Tickets
One way to increase your chances of getting 2026 World Cup tickets is by registering interest early and staying up-to-date with ticketing news and having notifications enable for updates. Additionally, be sure to have multiple devices ready to give yourself the best chance of scoring tickets.
Another strategy to try to get 2026 World Cup tickets is having multiple family members/friends apply for the tickets. Each person applying for tickets would be the main applicant and can list guests that would attend the match with them.
If the initial phases sell out, don't lose hope just yet. Routinely check the official FIFA ticketing portal to see if any other fans are unable to attend certain matches and have put their tickets up for resale.
Accommodation and Travel Tips for Ticket Holders
Accommodation and Travel Tips for 2026 World Cup Ticket Holders
If you manage to secure tickets, it's a good idea to book hotel accommodations as early as possible to avoid inflated prices closer to the start of the tournament in June 2026. Waiting until just weeks or months before the event could result in significantly higher costs.
Airbnb offers an alternative to traditional hotels, often providing similar amenities while being located in private homes or apartments. Considering the high cost of flights, taking buses to the matches across the host countries may be a more budget-friendly travel option, though renting a car is another viable choice.
Keep an eye out for special package deals that include both accommodations and tickets for the 2026 World Cup. Additionally, make sure you have a valid passport if you're traveling from outside the host countries, and be sure to apply for the necessary visas if you plan to attend matches in different countries.
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This article was originally published on www.si.com as 2026 World Cup Tickets: Pricing, Availability and How to Get Yours.