The World Cup 2026 tickets will be in high demand as football fans worldwide eagerly anticipate this historic event. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to get tickets for World Cup 2026, breaking down the ticketing process, phases, prices, and tips to help you secure your seats.
1. Understand the Ticketing Process
Tickets for the World Cup are released in phases by FIFA. Generally, there are three main phases:
- Phase 1: Random Selection Draw – This phase typically opens months in advance, where fans can apply for tickets without the need for immediate payment. If your application is selected, you will be allocated tickets.
- Phase 2: First-Come, First-Served – Once the random selection is done, unsold tickets go on sale. This phase requires quick action as tickets are sold directly on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Phase 3: Last-Minute Sales – For those who missed out earlier, FIFA offers a last-minute sales phase, which is open closer to the tournament, offering any remaining tickets.
2. Create a FIFA Ticketing Account
To buy tickets for the World Cup, you’ll need to create an official FIFA ticketing account. Here’s how:
- Visit the official FIFA website (fifa.com) and navigate to the ticketing section.
- Register with your email address and create a secure password.
- Ensure your details are correct, as these will be used for the ticketing process and communication.
Having an account will give you access to all ticket sales phases and updates.
3. Stay Updated with Key Dates
The dates for ticket sales are announced well in advance by FIFA. Keep an eye on official announcements or subscribe to FIFA’s mailing list to get real-time updates. You can also follow official social media channels for the latest news.
4. Choose Your Ticket Category
FIFA offers different categories of tickets depending on your budget and the match experience you’re looking for. The main categories are:
- Category 1 – The most premium seats with the best views, usually in the center of the stadium.
- Category 2 & 3 – More affordable seats but still offer a decent view of the pitch.
- Category 4 – The most budget-friendly option, typically located in the corners or higher sections of the stadium.
- Accessibility Tickets – Available for fans with disabilities, providing suitable access and seating.
Prices vary between these categories, so plan your budget accordingly.
5. Consider Team-Specific or Venue-Specific Tickets
FIFA offers various types of ticket packages:
- Individual Match Tickets – Purchase for specific matches or knockout stages.
- Team-Specific Tickets – Follow your favorite team throughout the tournament.
- Venue-Specific Tickets – Ideal if you’re based in one of the host cities and want to catch all the matches in that location.
6. Apply for Hospitality Packages
For a more premium experience, FIFA also offers hospitality packages that include luxury seating, dining, and other exclusive perks. These packages are often available separately from regular ticket sales and can provide guaranteed access to matches, even when standard tickets are sold out.
7. Watch Out for Resale Opportunities
FIFA has an official resale platform where ticket holders who can’t attend can sell their tickets. Be cautious of third-party resellers, as purchasing tickets outside of FIFA’s official platforms can result in fraudulent tickets that won’t grant you entry to the matches.
8. Prepare for the Ticket Lottery
Since demand for World Cup tickets often exceeds supply, some tickets may be allocated via lottery. The best way to increase your chances is by applying for multiple matches or venues, as this spreads out your options.
9. Check Travel Requirements
Once you’ve secured your tickets, don’t forget to plan your travel and accommodation well in advance, especially for international fans. The 2026 World Cup is expected to draw millions of tourists, so book early to avoid skyrocketing prices and sold-out hotels.
Conclusion
Getting tickets for the FIFA World Cup 2026 can be a competitive process, but with early preparation and the right strategy, you’ll have a good chance of securing your spot at one of the most anticipated sporting events in history. Remember to only purchase tickets from official sources and keep an eye on FIFA’s announcements to stay ahead of the crowd.
Good luck, and we hope to see you there!