Securing a FIFA World Cup tickets is like winning a lottery — actually, it quite literally is! Over 4.5 million people entered the first ticket lottery for the 2026 tournament, and the World Cup final allocation sold out within hours.
https://sports.usfwc26.com/how-to-buy-world-cup-2026-tickets-insider-tips-and-guide/
With this in mind, you’re probably wondering when World Cup tickets go on sale and how to improve your chances. FIFA released only about 1 million tickets (roughly 15% of the total inventory) during the first phase, creating intense competition among fans worldwide.
Fortunately, there are multiple pathways to secure your seat at football’s biggest spectacle. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore every possible method to get your hands on those coveted tickets — from navigating the lottery system to understanding the pricing tiers that range from $370 to $1,825 for premium matches. Whether you’re planning to attend a single match or multiple games (you can buy up to 40 tickets per household ), we’ve got you covered.
All the Ways to Get FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticket
Getting FIFA World Cup ticket requires strategy. From my research, here are six proven methods to secure your seat at the biggest football tournament:
1. Entering the ticket lotteries
The lottery system is FIFA’s primary ticket distribution method. The first opportunity was the Visa Presale Draw (September 10-19, 2025), followed by the Early Ticket Draw running October 27-31 [1]. After the World Cup Draw on December 5, another lottery phase will open, allowing fans to apply for specific matchups. For each lottery, FIFA randomly selects applicants and provides them with dedicated time slots to purchase tickets [2]. Furthermore, a final “first-come-first-served” phase will occur closer to the tournament for any remaining inventory [3].
2. Buying through official resale platforms
If you miss the initial sales, FIFA’s official Resale Marketplace (launched October 2, 2025) offers another chance [4]. This platform allows fans to buy tickets originally purchased by others. However, be prepared for higher prices—FIFA charges a 15% fee to both buyers and sellers [3]. In contrast, Mexican residents have access to a price-capped Exchange Marketplace where tickets can only be resold at face value [4].
3. Purchasing hospitality packages
For guaranteed access regardless of lotteries, consider hospitality packages through On Location, FIFA’s Official Hospitality Provider [5]. These premium packages include match tickets plus extras like upscale food and beverages, premium seating, and exclusive experiences. Packages range from shared lounges to private suites and are available for every match across all host cities [5]. Additionally, an interest-free payment plan is available: 2/3 due at purchase and 1/3 due January 2026 [5].
4. Using ‘Right to Buy’ tokens
FIFA has introduced digital “Right to Buy” (RTB) tokens through its FIFA Collect platform. These tokens grant holders guaranteed permission to purchase tickets, bypassing the uncertainty of lotteries [6]. Nevertheless, the tokens themselves cost hundreds of dollars, and you still need to pay for the actual tickets separately [2]. According to collected data, FIFA has sold over 30,000 RTBs, representing about 1% of total ticket inventory [7].
5. Applying through national federations
National soccer federations receive ticket allocations for their matches. For instance, U.S. Soccer Insiders can apply for USMNT match tickets through a dedicated portal [8]. Similarly, fans can request “conditional tickets” for potential knockout round appearances by their team [8].
6. Volunteering for the tournament
Though applications have closed, the volunteer program was another path to experience the event. Over one million people applied for approximately 65,000 volunteer positions [9].
Understanding Ticket Categories and Pricing
Image Source: The New York Times
FIFA World Cup ticket categories unlock a complex pricing structure that can make or break your budget. I’ve analyzed the official information to help you understand what you’re really paying for.
What are ticket categories?
FIFA divides stadium seating into five distinct categories for the 2026 tournament:
- Category 1: Premium seats located primarily in the lower tier, offering the best views [10]
- Category 2: Positioned outside Category 1 areas, available in both lower and upper tiers [10]
- Category 3: Located outside Categories 1 and 2, typically in the upper tier [10]
- Category 4: The most affordable option, positioned in the upper corners of stadiums [10] [11]
- Accessible Seating Area: Designated sections for individuals with disabilities and limited mobility [10]
Importantly, Category 1 makes up most of the lower bowl and much of the second deck, while Category 4 tickets (the advertised USD 60.00 ones) are limited to small sections high up in corner areas [11].
How much do tickets cost by match type?
Prices escalate dramatically by match importance:
- Group Stage: USD 60.00-620.00 (excluding host nation matches) [1]
- Round of 32: USD 105.00-665.00 [1]
- Round of 16: USD 170.00-890.00 [1]
- Quarterfinals: USD 275.00-1,690.00 [1]
- Semifinals: USD 420.00-2,780.00 [1]
- Bronze Medal Match: USD 165.00-1,000.00 [1]
- Final: USD 2,030.00-6,730.00 [12] [1]
Host nation matches command premium prices. The US opener costs between USD 1,120.00-2,735.00 [11], while Mexico’s first match ranges from USD 370.00-1,825.00 [1].
How FIFA’s variable pricing works
Unlike previous tournaments, the 2026 World Cup uses what FIFA calls “variable pricing” [13]. Essentially, FIFA manually reviews demand and availability between sales phases, then adjusts prices accordingly [4].
While FIFA insists it’s not implementing “dynamic pricing” with automated algorithms, the practical effect remains the same: prices fluctuate based on demand [4]. As a result, Category 1 tickets to the second USMNT group stage game jumped from USD 535.00 to USD 565.00 after just one day of sales [11].
This approach can occasionally benefit fans when interest is low. During the 2023 Club World Cup, tickets for a semifinal dropped from USD 474.00 to just USD 13.00 within days [13]. However, most evidence suggests prices will generally increase for high-demand matches.
Key Dates and Lottery Phases Explained
The countdown to FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets follows a precise timeline spread across multiple phases. Specifically, the first ticket window—the Visa Presale Draw—ran from September 10-19, 2025 [3], followed by the Early Ticket Draw with an entry period from October 27-31, 2025 [14]. Subsequently, a third phase will open shortly after the Final Draw on December 5, 2025 [15], with a final “Last-Minute Sales Phase” just before the tournament [15].
When do World Cup tickets go on sale?
FIFA’s ticket release strategy involves four distinct phases rather than a single on-sale date [15]. The initial Visa-exclusive phase already attracted over 1.5 million applications in just 24 hours [5]. Notably, the next opportunity begins October 27, 2025, at 11:00 AM ET and remains open until October 31, 2025 [14].
How the lottery system works
Unlike conventional tickets sales, World Cup entries aren’t first-come, first-served [5]. Fans create a FIFA ID, submit applications during the entry period, and wait. Successful applicants receive notifications (starting September 29 for the first phase [3]) with assigned time slots for purchases (beginning October 1 [5]). Particularly, missing your slot means your allocation may return to the general pool [5].
Chances of winning a lottery slot
The odds remain challenging—FIFA’s first lottery attracted over 4.5 million entrants competing for roughly 1 million tickets (about 15% of total inventory) [2]. Final tickets sold out within hours, followed quickly by semifinals and quarterfinals [2]. Furthermore, each winner can purchase up to 40 tickets, further reducing overall selection chances [2].
What to Do If You Don’t Get Tickets Initially
Don’t lose hope if your FIFA World Cup tickets lottery application comes up empty. Persistence pays off, and there are several backup strategies worth pursuing.
Using the resale market safely
The FIFA Official Resale Marketplace remains your safest bet for legitimate tickets. Indeed, this platform guarantees authenticity while protecting you from counterfeit tickets and scams. Consequently, I recommend avoiding unauthorized third-party sites, where prices often exceed face value by 300-400% with no purchase guarantees.
Waiting for last-minute sales
Patience can reward determined fans. After team eliminations, many supporters sell their knockout stage tickets. Moreover, FIFA typically releases additional inventory approximately 2-3 months before the tournament begins. As such, setting up notifications on the official FIFA ticketing platform gives you a competitive edge for these sudden releases.
Following a specific team through packages
If supporting a specific nation matters most, consider team-specific options. National federation allocations often become available after a team qualifies for the tournament. Alternatively, hospitality packages focused on following one team throughout their journey offer guaranteed access, albeit at premium prices. Meanwhile, joining official supporters’ clubs sometimes provides exclusive access to reserved ticket allocations not available to the general public.
Remember that flexibility with match selections and categories significantly increases your chances of experiencing football’s greatest spectacle.
Conclusion
Securing FIFA World Cup tickets certainly requires strategy, persistence, and sometimes a bit of luck. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the various pathways available to football fans worldwide. Therefore, your best approach involves trying multiple methods rather than relying solely on the initial lottery.
Above all, starting early dramatically improves your chances. The first ticket lotteries represent just 15% of total inventory, with additional opportunities coming after the December 5th draw. Subsequently, flexibility regarding match selection, seating categories, and pricing will significantly enhance your prospects of attending the tournament.
While the variable pricing structure might seem daunting at first glance, understanding the different categories helps you make informed decisions based on your budget and priorities. Additionally, official resale platforms offer a legitimate safety net if your initial applications prove unsuccessful.
Most importantly, remember that hospitality packages, though expensive, provide guaranteed access regardless of lottery outcomes. Alternatively, national federation allocations present another viable route for dedicated supporters of specific teams.
Football’s greatest tournament only comes around every four years, making the effort worthwhile despite the challenges. Whether you secure premium Category 1 seats or find yourself high in the stadium corners with Category 4 tickets, witnessing World Cup history unfold before your eyes creates memories that last a lifetime. The journey to obtain tickets might feel overwhelming now, but trust me—once that first whistle blows, you’ll forget all about the application process and immerse yourself in the unparalleled atmosphere of the beautiful game on its biggest stage.
Key Takeaways
Getting FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket requires strategic planning across multiple phases, with only 15% of inventory released in the first lottery that attracted over 4.5 million applicants.
• Multiple pathways exist beyond lotteries: Official resale platforms, hospitality packages, national federation allocations, and “Right to Buy” tokens offer alternative routes to secure tickets.
• Timing is crucial: Key dates include the Early Ticket Draw (October 27-31, 2025), post-Final Draw phase (after December 5), and last-minute sales closer to the tournament.
• Pricing varies dramatically by match importance: Group stage tickets start at $60, while Final tickets range from $2,030-$6,730, with FIFA’s variable pricing adjusting costs based on demand.
• Flexibility increases your chances: Being open to different matches, seating categories, and price points significantly improves your odds of attending the tournament.
• Official channels provide safety: Stick to FIFA’s official platforms and authorized resellers to avoid counterfeit tickets and inflated prices from unauthorized third parties.
The key to success lies in applying through multiple channels rather than relying on a single method, as each household can purchase up to 40 tickets across different phases and categories.
FAQs
Q1. When do FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets go on sale? Ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are released in multiple phases. The first phase, the Visa Presale Draw, ran from September 10-19, 2025. The Early Ticket Draw followed from October 27-31, 2025. Additional phases will open after the Final Draw on December 5, 2025, with a Last-Minute Sales Phase closer to the tournament.
Q2. How much do FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets cost? Ticket prices vary widely depending on the match and seating category. Group stage tickets start at $60, while prices for the final range from $2,030 to $6,730. Host nation matches, particularly the opening games, command premium prices. For example, the US opener costs between $1,120 and $2,735.
Q3. How does the ticket lottery system work for the 2026 World Cup? The lottery system is FIFA’s primary ticket distribution method. Fans create a FIFA ID and submit applications during specified entry periods. Successful applicants are randomly selected and notified with assigned time slots to purchase tickets. It’s important to note that missing your allocated time slot may result in losing your ticket opportunity.
Q4. What are the different ticket categories for the 2026 World Cup? FIFA divides stadium seating into five categories: Category 1 (premium seats, best views), Category 2 (lower and upper tiers), Category 3 (typically upper tier), Category 4 (most affordable, upper corners), and Accessible Seating Areas for individuals with disabilities. Prices increase significantly from Category 4 to Category 1.
Q5. What should I do if I don’t get tickets in the initial sales? If you don’t secure tickets initially, there are several options. You can use the FIFA Official Resale Marketplace, which guarantees authenticity. Wait for last-minute sales, as FIFA typically releases additional inventory closer to the tournament. Consider team-specific packages through national federations, or explore hospitality packages for guaranteed access, albeit at premium prices.
References
[1] – https://www.si.com/soccer/2026-world-cup-tickets-prices-group-stage-final-revealed
[2] – https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6593924/2025/10/09/world-cup-2026-tickets-how-to-buy/
[3] – https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/articles/one-week-to-go-before-first-phase-ticket-sales-open
[4] – https://theworldcupguide.com/world-cup-2026-ticket-essentials-new-pricing-rules/
[5] – https://sportsplanningguide.com/how-the-2026-ticket-lottery-works-key-rules-dates-and-whats-new/
[6] – https://collect.fifa.com/rtb
[7] – https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/09/08/fifa-cashes-in-on-millions-from-right-to-buy-2026-world-cup-ticket-tokens/
[8] – https://www.ussoccer.com/support/fifa-world-cup-fan-ticket-faq
[9] – https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026/volunteers
[10] – https://gpcustomersupportfwc2026.tickets.fifa.com/hc/en-gb/articles/30067225701789-2-What-are-the-FIFA-World-Cup-26-ticket-categories
[11] – https://cuatower.com/2025/10/fifa-reveals-ticket-prices-for-2026-world-cup/
[12] – https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cdjzknpxlv2o
[13] – https://www.newsweek.com/fifa-world-cup-2026-tickets-schedule-dynamic-pricing-10835739
[14] – https://www.fox4news.com/news/fifa-world-cup-tickets-how-register-early-ticket-draw
[15] – https://www.sportingnews.com/us/tickets/news/how-buy-fifa-world-cup-2026-tickets-draw-pricing-tournament/1267e07563e56a19e2aa9ee9
1 thought on “The Easy Way to Get Your 2026 FIFA World Cup Tickets: An Insider’s Guide”