The FIFA World Cup 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the most exciting sporting events in history. For the first time ever, the tournament will be hosted across three countries the United States, Canada, and Mexico with a record 48 teams competing. Anticipation is sky-high, and so is the demand for tickets.
With the World Cup being one of the world’s most watched and attended events, securing your official ticket early is the key to avoiding scams, inflated reseller prices, and missed opportunities. This guide walks you through how to buy World Cup 2026 tickets safely and officially, along with tips on planning your trip, understanding ticket categories, and making the most of this once-in-a-generation experience.
How World Cup Ticketing Works
Before diving into the buying process, it’s important to understand how FIFA manages ticket sales:
- Official FIFA Platform Only: Tickets are sold exclusively through FIFA’s official ticketing website (usually via FIFA.com/tickets). Any third-party website or seller outside of FIFA’s approved resale platform should be treated as risky.
- Sales Phases: FIFA typically releases tickets in multiple phases:
- Random Selection Draw Phase: fans apply for tickets and are randomly selected.
- First-Come, First-Served Phase: remaining tickets go to those who act quickly.
- Last-Minute Sales: closer to the tournament, more tickets are released.
- Ticket Categories FIFA divides stadium seating into different price levels:
- Category 1: best central seats, most expensive.
- Category 2: corner or sideline seats, mid-range price.
- Category 3: behind the goals, cheaper but still great atmosphere.
- Category 4: available only for residents of the host country, at affordable prices.
When Will World Cup 2026 Tickets Go on Sale?
While FIFA has not yet opened official ticket sales, history gives us clues:
- For Qatar 2022, sales began about 10 months before kickoff.
- For Russia 2018, ticketing opened roughly a year before the tournament.
Since World Cup 2026 kicks off in June 2026, fans can expect ticket applications to open sometime in 2025, likely late spring or summer. FIFA usually makes an official announcement well in advance.
Where to Buy Tickets Officially
The only legitimate source is the FIFA Ticketing Portal:
- Website: FIFA.com/tickets (URL will be updated for 2026).
- No physical sales outlets: everything is handled online.
- Ticket Resale Platform: FIFA usually opens an official resale market where fans can safely buy or sell tickets at face value.
⚠️ Warning: Avoid sites like Viagogo, StubHub, or unauthorized resellers. These are often overpriced and may leave fans stranded at stadium gates if tickets are invalid.
How Much Will Tickets Cost?
FIFA has not yet announced official prices for 2026, but we can estimate based on Qatar 2022:
- Group stage tickets ranged from $70 (Category 3) to $220 (Category 1).
- Knockout stage tickets increased, with semifinals going up to $900+.
- The final match tickets peaked at $1,600+ for premium seats.
Given the U.S., Canada, and Mexico’s hosting costs and demand, prices in 2026 will likely be slightly higher. Budget accordingly.
Hospitality Packages vs. Regular Tickets
FIFA also offers hospitality packages, which include premium seating, food, drinks, and sometimes VIP experiences. These are marketed through Match Hospitality (the official provider).
While these packages are significantly more expensive, they can guarantee access to high-demand games such as the final in New Jersey (MetLife Stadium).
fans should also check the full FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule to plan which matches to attend.
Key Tips for Securing Tickets
- Create a FIFA Account Early: set up your profile ahead of time.
- Have Payment Ready: most tickets are purchased by credit card.
- Apply in Multiple Phases: don’t rely on just one sales window.
- Be Flexible on Matches: group stage tickets are easier to get than finals.
- Watch for Resale Phase: many fans release extra tickets closer to match days.
Traveling for the World Cup 2026
Since the tournament spans 16 host cities across 3 countries, planning is crucial.
- U.S. Cities: New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, San Francisco (Bay Area), Atlanta, Philadelphia, Seattle, Boston, Houston, Kansas City.
- Canada: Toronto, Vancouver.
- Mexico: Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey.
Fans should book flights and accommodations early hotels in host cities will sell out quickly.
Common Ticket Scams to Avoid
- Fake Websites: Always double-check the FIFA domain.
- Social Media Sellers: Many scams happen on Facebook, Instagram, or WhatsApp.
- “Too Good to Be True” Offers: If someone claims they can guarantee final tickets before FIFA even announces sales, it’s a red flag.
World Cup Ticket Madness
Demand for World Cup tickets has always been overwhelming:
- Brazil 2014 saw 11 million applications for just 3.3 million tickets.
- Qatar 2022 had over 17 million applications during the first phase.
Expect 2026 to break records, especially with matches in football-loving nations like Mexico and the U.S.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a once-in-a-lifetime event, bringing the beautiful game to North America on an unprecedented scale. If you’re dreaming of being in the stands, the best way to secure your spot is to buy directly from FIFA, plan ahead, and avoid shortcuts that risk scams or inflated costs.
Get your FIFA account ready, monitor official announcements, and prepare to join millions of fans as the world comes together in 2026.