2026 FIFA World Cup Tickets: Release Date, Prices, How to Buy
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the biggest soccer event in history. It will take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This is the first time the tournament will include 48 teams. A total of 104 matches will be played in 16 cities across North America.
The World Cup will begin on June 11, 2026, and end with the final on July 19, 2026. The final will take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Fans from around the world are expected to attend.
This guide will help you understand how to get tickets, what they cost, and how the process works. You will also learn about stadiums, seating options, resale rules, and special ticket offers. Everything here is based on the latest updates as of October 2025.
World Cup 2026 Ticket Sales Timeline – Updated
Ticket sales have already begun. The first phase launched in September 2025, and multiple rounds are now underway. Here’s the complete timeline:
Phase 1: Visa Presale Draw (Completed)
- Entry Period: September 10-19, 2025
- Eligibility: Visa cardholders only
- Purchasing Windows: Started October 1, 2025
- Selected fans received email notifications with specific date and time slots to purchase tickets
Phase 2: Early Ticket Draw
- Registration Window: October 27-31, 2025
- Process: Application-based selection
- Selected members receive emails with purchase slots
- Check the Complete Guide about Phase 2 Ticket Draw
Phase 3: Random Selection Draw
- Timing: After December 5, 2025 (following the World Cup draw)
- Advantage: Fans will know team assignments and match locations
- Best For: Supporters who want to follow specific teams
Ongoing Sales
FIFA continues to release tickets in phases leading up to the tournament in June 2026. Additional purchase opportunities will be announced for fans who were not selected in earlier rounds.
Already Available
Hospitality packages are currently on sale and do not require entering a lottery. These offer guaranteed entry with premium amenities.
World Cup Ticket Availability and Types
FIFA offers different ticket options to fit all kinds of fans. Each type has its own benefits.
Single Match Tickets: These tickets let you attend one match. Available through the ticket draw system for all matches from group stage through the final.
Venue-Series Packages: Starting at $8,275, this option gives access to all matches (4-9 games) at one stadium throughout the tournament. No match days or stages are excluded.
Follow-My-Team Packages: Starting at $6,750, you can follow your national team through all group stage matches plus one Round of 32 match. Note: Currently not available for host nations (USA, Mexico, Canada). Includes matchday hospitality.
Single Match Hospitality: Starting at $1,350 per person, includes one group stage game (excluding host nations) and one Round of 32 match, plus FIFA hospitality options.
VIP & Hospitality Packages: These include premium seats, meals, and access to private lounges. Prices are higher, but these packages give guaranteed entry without entering a lottery. Available now through official FIFA partners.
Each package is sold only through FIFA’s official site or its listed partners. Avoid other sellers to protect your purchase.
How Much Do World Cup 2026 Tickets Cost – Updated Pricing
For the first time in World Cup history, FIFA has introduced dynamic pricing. Ticket prices will rise or fall based on real-time demand, similar to airline tickets. This means prices can change significantly depending on when you buy and which teams are playing.
Current Price Ranges
| Match Stage | Starting Price | Premium Seats |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | $60 | Up to $600+ |
| Round of 32 | $118 | Up to $800+ |
| Round of 16 | $118 | $318+ |
| Quarterfinals | $235 | $494+ |
| Semifinals | $412 | $1,118+ |
| Final | $6,300+ | $6,730 |
Price Context
These prices represent a massive increase from Qatar 2022, where the highest final ticket was $1,607. The cheapest ticket to the 2026 final ($6,300) is more than ten times what fans paid for the same seat in Qatar.
Hospitality Packages (Guaranteed Entry)
- Single Match: Starting at $1,350
- Venue Series: Starting at $8,275
- Follow My Team: Starting at $6,750
Important Dynamic Pricing Notes
- Buy early for best prices: FIFA officials confirm that prices will likely increase as demand rises
- Prices can drop: If demand is low, prices may decrease close to match day (similar to the 2023 Club World Cup where some tickets dropped from $474 to $13)
- Uncertainty factor: When you buy tickets before team assignments are announced, you don’t know which teams will play in your purchased matches
Factors Affecting Ticket Prices
Several things affect how much a World Cup ticket costs. Understanding these can help you plan better and potentially save money.
- Match Stage: Prices increase significantly in later rounds. Group stage games are the most affordable, while semifinals and the final command premium prices.
- Team Popularity: Under dynamic pricing, matches featuring popular teams like Argentina (with Lionel Messi), Brazil, England, or host nations will cost more than matches between lower-ranked teams.
- Host City: Large metropolitan areas like New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, and Miami tend to have higher ticket prices. Smaller venues in cities like Kansas City may be more affordable.
- Seat Location: FIFA offers four seating categories. Category 1 seats are near the center of the field and cost the most. Category 4 seats are higher up or behind the goal and cost the least.
- Purchase Timing: With dynamic pricing, buying early generally offers better value, but prices can drop if demand is low closer to match day. However, waiting is risky as popular matches will sell out or increase in price.
- Team Assignment Knowledge: Tickets purchased after the December 5, 2025 draw (Phase 3) allow you to know which teams play where, but may cost more due to higher demand.
World Cup 2026 Ticket Categories and Seating Options
FIFA offers four seating categories. Each category has a different view and price level. Here’s a simple guide:
| Category | Location in Stadium | View Quality | Price Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | Midfield (lower tier) | Best view | Highest |
| Category 2 | Corners (lower/mid tiers) | Very good | High |
| Category 3 | Behind the goals | Good | Moderate |
| Category 4 | Upper levels, end zones | Basic view | Lowest |
FIFA also offers accessible seating for fans with disabilities. These seats are placed in easy-to-access areas with clear views and added support.
How to Buy FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets – Step by Step
Buying tickets requires following the official FIFA process. Here’s exactly what to do:
Step 1: Create a FIFA ID
Go to FIFA.com/tickets and sign up. This is mandatory for all ticket purchases and gives you access to all ticket updates and future sales phases.
Step 2: Register Your Interest
Once you have your FIFA ID, register for ticket alerts. You will receive emails about upcoming sale dates and draw entry windows.
Step 3: Enter Available Ticket Draws
Apply during open registration periods (check FIFA’s website for current phases). You must enter a lottery for your preferred matches. The system will randomly select applicants.
Step 4: Wait for Selection Notification
If selected, FIFA will send you an email with a specific date and time slot to purchase tickets. These windows are limited, so respond quickly.
Step 5: Complete Your Payment
Follow the instructions in your notification email. You must complete payment within your assigned time window to secure your tickets. Accepted payment method: Visa cards (FIFA’s exclusive payment partner).
Step 6: Check Future Phases
If you’re not selected, don’t give up. More ticket phases will open throughout the year, with the best opportunities coming after the December 5, 2025 group draw.
Alternative: Buy Hospitality Tickets Now
Hospitality and VIP packages are available immediately without a lottery at fifaworldcup26.hospitality.fifa.com. These guarantee entry and include premium amenities.
CRITICAL: Only use FIFA’s official platform or listed partners to buy tickets. Avoid any third-party sites to prevent scams and invalid tickets.
Tickets Resale and Transfer Policies
FIFA operates an official resale platform for the 2026 World Cup, but policies have changed significantly from previous tournaments.
Official Resale Platform Changes
In the United States and Canada: FIFA now allows uncapped resale prices (no price ceiling). This is different from previous World Cups where resale prices were limited to face value. Some final tickets are already listed for over $25,000 on the official platform.
In Mexico: A separate official ticket exchange platform will operate for residents with traditional face-value resale caps.
FIFA’s Resale Fees
- FIFA collects 15% from buyers
- FIFA collects 15% from sellers
- Total: 30% of each resale goes to FIFA (up from approximately 10% at previous World Cups)
Safe Ticket Transfers
You can transfer your ticket to someone you know through your FIFA account. Once transferred, the other person controls it and you cannot take it back.
For temporary access without transferring ownership, use the “Send Your Ticket” feature in the FIFA app. This allows you to keep ownership while sharing access with your guest.
Warning About Unofficial Resellers
Do NOT use unofficial resale websites like StubHub, Viagogo or other third-party platforms. These are not approved by FIFA. Tickets bought there may be:
- Fake or invalid
- Overpriced with no buyer protection
- Subject to cancellation
Always use the official FIFA resale system for any ticket changes or purchases.
Stadium Locations and Host Cities
The 2026 World Cup will be played in 16 stadiums across the United States, Mexico and Canada. Each country will host matches in multiple cities. The final will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
| Stadium | City | Country | Notable Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| MetLife Stadium | East Rutherford | USA | Final |
| Estadio Azteca | Mexico City | Mexico | Opening Match |
| AT&T Stadium | Arlington (Dallas) | USA | Semifinal |
| Mercedes-Benz Stadium | Atlanta | USA | Semifinal |
| SoFi Stadium | Inglewood (LA) | USA | Round of 16 |
| Lumen Field | Seattle | USA | Group Stage |
| Levi’s Stadium | Santa Clara | USA | Round of 16 |
| NRG Stadium | Houston | USA | Round of 16 |
| Lincoln Financial Field | Philadelphia | USA | Group Stage |
| Gillette Stadium | Foxborough (Boston) | USA | Group Stage |
| Hard Rock Stadium | Miami | USA | Quarterfinal |
| Arrowhead Stadium | Kansas City | USA | Group Stage |
| Estadio BBVA | Monterrey | Mexico | Group Stage |
| Estadio Akron | Guadalajara | Mexico | Group Stage |
| BMO Field | Toronto | Canada | Group Stage |
| BC Place | Vancouver | Canada | Group Stage |
These stadiums are located in major cities with good airports, hotels, and public transport. You can attend matches in one place or plan travel between cities.
2026 FIFA World Cup Tickets FAQ: All you need to know
When do tickets go on sale?
Ticket sales have already begun. Phase 1 (Visa presale) ran September 10-19, 2025, with purchases starting October 1. Phase 2 registration opens October 27-31. Phase 3 begins after the December 5 draw. Hospitality packages are available now.
How much will tickets cost?
Prices range from $60 for group stage seats to $6,730 for premium final seats. Due to dynamic pricing, costs change based on demand. The cheapest final ticket starts around $6,300.
What is dynamic pricing?
FIFA uses demand-based pricing for the first time. Prices rise when demand is high and can fall when demand is low. This means ticket costs can change daily based on factors like team popularity and remaining availability.
Can I attend more than one match in a day?
Yes. You can buy multiple tickets in one order. FIFA allows group and family purchases.
Can I buy tickets for my family?
Yes. You can buy multiple tickets in one order. FIFA allows group and family purchases.
What if my team doesn’t qualify?
Wait until after the tournament draw on December 5, 2025, to choose Follow-My-Team packages. This ensures your team has qualified and you know where they’ll play.
Is it safe to buy from third-party sellers?
No. Only use FIFA’s official site (FIFA.com/tickets) or approved partners. Buying elsewhere may lead to fraud, invalid tickets, or extreme markups with no recourse.
How do I get special access or VIP seats?
Visit fifaworldcup26.hospitality.fifa.com to buy hospitality packages. These are available now without a lottery and offer guaranteed entry plus premium amenities.
Why are 2026 tickets so expensive?
This is the most expensive World Cup in history due to dynamic pricing, increased stadium capacity, and FIFA’s revenue targets. Tickets are significantly more expensive than Qatar 2022.
Can ticket prices go down?
Yes, under dynamic pricing, tickets for less popular matches may decrease in price as the match approaches. However, this is risky as popular matches will sell out or increase in cost.
Do I need a Visa card to buy tickets?
Visa is FIFA’s exclusive payment partner. Phase 1 was Visa-only. Later phases may accept Visa cards for payment, so having one is recommended.
What happens after the December draw?
After December 5, 2025, you’ll be able to purchase tickets knowing which teams play in which cities. This removes uncertainty but may come with higher prices due to increased demand.
Last Updated: October 2025
Official FIFA Tickets: FIFA.com/tickets
Official Hospitality: fifaworldcup26.hospitality.fifa.com