The FIFA World Cup 2026 has already set a new benchmark for global interest, with more than 150 million ticket requests submitted at the halfway stage of the Random Selection Draw ticketing phase.
Fans from over 200 countries have applied for tickets since the current phase opened on Thursday, 11 December 2025, making the tournament more than 30 times oversubscribed based on verified individual credit card entries. The level of demand is unprecedented, exceeding by 3.4 times the total number of spectators who have attended all 22 previous editions of the World Cup combined since the competition began in 1930.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the response as historic, saying the figures underline the global appeal of the tournament. He noted that the record-breaking demand reflects the passion of football fans worldwide and sets the stage for what he called the “greatest and most inclusive show on the planet” when the tournament arrives in North America.
The 2026 World Cup will run from Thursday, 11 June to Sunday, 19 July 2026 and will be hosted across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico and the United States. It will be the first edition to feature 48 teams, competing in a total of 104 matches.
The Random Selection Draw ticketing phase remains open until Tuesday, 13 January 2026 at 11:00 ET (17:00 CET). FIFA has confirmed that the timing of applications does not influence the chances of success, as all valid entries will have an equal opportunity once the draw is conducted after the phase closes. Fans who are unsuccessful will still have chances to purchase tickets in later sales phases as more tickets become available.
Ticket prices will remain unchanged throughout the current sales phase. Fans with an existing FIFA ID can log in and apply directly, while new users must create an account via FIFA.com/tickets, the official ticketing platform for the tournament.
In a move to improve affordability, FIFA has also introduced a Supporter Entry Tier, offering tickets at a fixed price of USD 60 for each of the 104 matches, including the final. Eligible fans may also apply for Participating Member Association (PMA) Supporter tickets, subject to criteria set by their respective football associations.
For supporters seeking premium experiences, hospitality packages — including match tickets — are available through FIFA’s Official Hospitality Provider, On Location. Fans can also explore all-inclusive travel packages offered in partnership with Qatar Airways, covering flights, accommodation, transport and match tickets.
FIFA has reiterated that as a not-for-profit organisation, it reinvests revenue generated from the World Cup into the development of football globally. The governing body expects to reinvest more than 90% of its budgeted funds for the 2023–2026 cycle back into the game across its 211 Member Associations.