FIFA Launches Second Phase of World Cup Ticket Sales, Focus on Host Nations
FIFA kicked off the second phase of ticket sales for the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup on Monday, unveiling a draw for an additional one million tickets. This phase includes a special time slot for residents of the host countries— the United States, Canada, and Mexico—allowing local fans to secure single-match tickets for games played in their home nations.
The ticket draw will remain open until 11 a.m. Eastern on Friday, and successful entries will grant fans a chance to purchase tickets starting November 12 through November 15. Heimo Schirgi, FIFA’s chief operating officer for the tournament, emphasized the massive interest generated for the event, particularly from fans in the host countries. “This second phase… will allow us to say ‘thank you’ to these local fans while ensuring global opportunity as well,” he stated.
In the initial ticketing phase, fans from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico were the leading buyers, with England, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and France following in the top ten. Once the domestic exclusivity period concludes, additional fans worldwide will be eligible to enter the draw starting November 17.
FIFA reported that over one million tickets have already been sold, with purchasers from 212 countries and territories. Currently, 28 of the 48 tournament spots have been filled, as excitement builds for the largest FIFA World Cup yet.
However, potential attendees face challenges, particularly regarding visa requirements as the U.S. implements stricter immigration policies. This was highlighted when a friendly match between Argentina, featuring superstar Lionel Messi, and Puerto Rico was relocated from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale due to disappointing ticket sales attributed to these immigration concerns.
With approximately 7.1 million seats across 16 venues for the tournament’s 104 matches, the demand for tickets remains high. Ticket prices vary significantly, with the lowest-priced seats starting around $60, but many matches feature tickets priced much higher. For instance, the cost for seats at the opening U.S. match in Inglewood, California, ranges from $560 to $2,735, with some resale tickets listed for over $60,000.
FIFA’s dynamic pricing approach for this World Cup marks a first for the tournament, indicating that ticket costs may fluctuate based on demand. As the tournament approaches, both excitement and logistical concerns continue to shape the landscape for fans eager to be part of soccer’s biggest event.
