FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticket Lottery: Registration Dates, Prices & Tips
The FIFA World Cup 2026 makes history as the first tournament across three nations. The United States, Mexico, and Canada will host 48 teams competing for soccer’s biggest prize. The action starts June 11, 2026, at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca.
Getting tickets requires entering FIFA’s lottery system. This guide shows you exactly how to register, what tickets cost and smart strategies to boost your chances.
Phase 2 Opens October 27: Your Next Chance
Mark October 27, 2025 on your calendar. Phase 2 registration runs from October 27 through October 31. This five day window is your next major opportunity to get tickets.
Phase 1 already ended with over 4.5 million fans competing for tickets. The demand was massive. Phase 2 gives you another shot.
How the Three Phase System Works
FIFA created three separate lottery phases. You can enter each phase independently to increase your chances.
Phase 1 (Completed): Ran September 10-19 for Visa cardholders only. Winners bought tickets starting October 1.
Phase 2 (October 27-31): Registration opens soon. Winners get purchase slots from mid November to early December. Everyone who registers has equal odds regardless of when you sign up during the five day window.
Phase 3 (After December 5): Opens after the World Cup draw. You can target specific teams and matches once you know the schedule.
Five Steps to Enter the World Cup Ticket Lottery
Step 1: Create Your FIFA ID
Visit fifa.com/tickets and register. You need this account before entering any phase. Keep your login information safe.
Step 2: Register During the Window
Log in between October 27-31 for Phase 2. Fill out the entry form with your identification, payment details, contact information, and match preferences.
Step 3: Wait for Selection
FIFA randomly selects winners after registration closes. The timing of your registration does not matter. All entries have equal chances.
Step 4: Check Your Email
Winners receive an email with their purchase window date, time, and instructions. Check your spam folder too. Add FIFA emails to your safe sender list.
Step 5: Buy Your Tickets
Purchase during your assigned window. Have backup match choices ready since availability varies. Complete payment before your window closes or lose access.
Ticket Prices for Every Budget
| Ticket Category | Price Range | Location | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category 4 | $60 – $105 | Upper corners | Budget travelers, multiple matches |
| Category 2 & 3 | $150 – $500 | Upper tiers | Good views, mid-range budget |
| Category 1 | $500 – $6,730 | Lower decks | Premium experience, final match |
Budget Option: $60-$105
Category 4 tickets sit in upper corner sections. Group stage matches start at just $60. You can attend multiple games affordably. Target matches without host nations for better availability and lower prices.
Mid Range: $150-$500
Category 2 and 3 tickets offer better views from upper tiers. Great value for knockout rounds. Good balance between cost and experience.
Premium: $500-$6,730
Category 1 seats provide optimal viewing from lower decks. Final tickets at MetLife Stadium reach $6,730. Perfect for once in a lifetime moments.
Hospitality Packages
Available now without lottery entry at fifaworldcup26.hospitality.fifa.com.
| Package Type | Starting Price | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Single Match | $1,350 | 1 group stage + 1 Round of 32 match with hospitality |
| Follow My Team | $6,750 | All group stage matches + 1 knockout match with hospitality |
| Venue Series | $8,275 | All matches at one venue (4-9 games) with hospitality |
- Single Match Package ($1,350): One group stage and one Round of 32 match with hospitality access.
- Follow My Team Package ($6,750): All group stage matches for your chosen team plus hospitality. Not available for USA, Mexico, or Canada yet.
- Venue Series Package ($8,275): All matches at one venue with full hospitality throughout.
Smart Strategies to Win World Cup Tickets
- Enter Every Phase: Each lottery is independent. Multiple entries equal better odds.
- Be Flexible: Select multiple matches, dates, venues, and seating categories. Flexibility is your best advantage.
- Prepare Payment: Have credit cards ready with sufficient limits. Payment issues cost fans their tickets in Phase 1.
- Set Notifications: Enable email and SMS alerts. Check spam folders daily during selection periods.
- Avoid Peak Times: Log in 15-30 minutes before your purchase window. Use stable internet. Avoid public WiFi. Have backup match choices ready.
Other Ways to Get World Cup 2026 Tickets
- U.S. Soccer Lottery: Separate lottery for American fans expected September through December 2025. Check ussoccer.com for updates.
- Canada Soccer Lottery: Canadian specific lottery for Canada matches. Visit canadasoccer.com.
- Official Resale Platform: FIFA launches this closer to the tournament. Safest secondary market option.
- Last Minute Sales: Unsold tickets become available first come first served in early 2026. Monitor fifa.com regularly.
How to Plan Your World Cup 2026 Trip
Choose Your City Wisely
Mexico offers lower costs and authentic atmosphere. Consider Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Monterrey for budget travel.
U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami provide extensive infrastructure but higher prices. Dallas, Atlanta, and Houston offer good central locations.
Canada provides clean cities and great transport. Toronto and Vancouver host limited matches.
Book Accommodation Early
Hotels are already filling for June-July 2026. Make refundable reservations now. Consider nearby cities with good transport connections. Share costs with other fans through group travel.
Plan Transportation
Book international flights 6-8 months ahead. Check visa requirements early. Research public transit from your hotel to the stadium. Most venues offer transit options. Arrive 3-4 hours early for security on match days.
Prepare for Weather
| Location | June-July Temp | What to Pack |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico | 80-90°F, possible rain | Sunscreen, hat, light rain jacket |
| Southern U.S. | 85-100°F, humid | Sunscreen, hat, light clothes |
| Northern U.S. & Canada | 70-85°F, pleasant | Layers, sunscreen |
Pack sunscreen, hats, and layers. Stay hydrated.
Key Tournament Dates you need to know
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Oct 27–31, 2025 | Phase 2 Registration Window |
| Mid Nov – Early Dec 2025 | Phase 2 Purchase Windows |
| Dec 5, 2025 | World Cup Draw (Washington D.C.) |
| After Dec 5, 2025 | Phase 3 Opens |
| June 11, 2026 | Opening Match (Mexico City) |
| June 12, 2026 | USA & Canada Opening Matches |
| June 28 – July 3, 2026 | Round of 32 |
| July 4–7, 2026 | Round of 16 |
| July 9–11, 2026 | Quarterfinals |
| July 14–15, 2026 | Semifinals |
| July 19, 2026 | Final (MetLife Stadium, NJ) |
Avoid These Mistakes
Set multiple reminders for registration deadlines. Complete your FIFA profile accurately before October 27. Check email and spam folders daily during selection. Act quickly during your purchase window.
Only use official FIFA channels. Have backup match preferences. Budget for total costs including travel and accommodation. Understand ticket transfer policies before buying.
Take Action Now
Phase 2 registration opens in days. Create your FIFA ID today at fifa.com/tickets. Prepare payment methods. Research your preferred matches and cities. Calculate your total budget.
The tournament features 104 matches across 16 cities. Options exist for every budget from $60 group stage seats to premium hospitality packages. Success requires preparation and flexibility.
Three nations unite for soccer’s biggest celebration. Millions of fans will compete for tickets. Your preparation today determines your 2026 experience.
Visit fifa.com/tickets. Register October 27-31. Only trust official FIFA sources. Avoid scam websites and unauthorized sellers.
The beautiful game awaits. Your World Cup journey starts now.
