when to get world cup tickets 2026

2 min read 14-03-2025

The FIFA World Cup 2026, a joint venture between the USA, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be an unforgettable event. Millions will be vying for tickets, making securing yours a priority. This guide details the optimal time to begin your World Cup 2026 ticket hunt.

Understanding the Ticketing Process

The official ticketing process for the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be managed by FIFA. They'll likely use a similar system to previous World Cups, involving phases and potentially a lottery system. Expect high demand, especially for popular matches.

Key Factors Influencing Ticket Availability and Price

Match Popularity: Tickets for the opening match, finals, and matches featuring popular teams will be in extremely high demand. These will sell out the fastest.
Ticket Category: FIFA offers various ticket categories, each with varying prices and seating locations. Knowing your budget and desired experience is crucial.
Sales Phases: The sale will likely be broken into phases, potentially including a pre-sale for FIFA members or early bird sales.

When Should You Start Looking for World Cup 2026 Tickets?

While the exact dates aren't yet set, planning ahead is crucial. Here’s a realistic timeline:

Phase 1: Early Bird Registration (Late 2024 - Early 2025)

What to do: Register your interest with FIFA as soon as official registration opens. This will likely be announced on the official FIFA website. This often allows priority access or entry into lotteries. Don't delay; registration usually fills up quickly.
Why it's important: Being part of the early registration process increases your chances of securing tickets, especially for highly sought-after matches.

Phase 2: Pre-Sales and Lottery (Mid-2025)

What to do: Keep an eye on FIFA's official website for announcements regarding pre-sale periods. Participate in any lotteries if offered. Even if you don't win, it keeps you informed about the ticketing process.
Why it's important: Pre-sales often offer a better chance of acquiring tickets before the general public sale.

Phase 3: General Public Sale (Late 2025 - Early 2026)

What to do: Be ready to act swiftly once the general public sale begins. Have your payment information readily available. These tickets are likely to sell out rapidly.
Why it's important: While the most straightforward path, securing tickets here could be challenging due to extremely high demand.

Where to Find Official World Cup Tickets?

Only purchase tickets through official channels. Beware of unofficial resellers and scalpers who may overcharge or sell invalid tickets. The official FIFA website will be the sole legitimate source for World Cup 2026 tickets.

Tips for Securing World Cup 2026 Tickets

Stay Informed: Regularly check the official FIFA website and social media channels for updates.
Be Patient: The process can be competitive, so patience and persistence are essential.
Have a Plan: Decide on your budget, preferred matches, and seating preferences before the sale begins.
Team Up: If traveling with friends or family, coordinate your ticket purchases to increase your chances of securing seats together.

Conclusion: Don't Wait!

Securing World Cup 2026 tickets will require proactive planning and prompt action. By starting early with registration and staying informed about the official sales process, you significantly increase your chances of witnessing this spectacular global event. Don't delay; the countdown to the 2026 World Cup has begun!