2026 World Cup: Over 4.5 million fans apply in first phase of ticket sales

More than 4.5 million supporters from 216 countries and territories have taken part in the opening phase of ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, FIFA confirmed on Friday evening.

The initial sales period, conducted through a Visa pre-sale draw, offered the first opportunity for fans to secure seats for the tournament, which will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico in June and July 2026.

Unsurprisingly, demand was highest from residents of the three host nations.

They were followed by fans from Germany, England, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Spain and Italy, reflecting the competition’s broad international appeal.

These figures are exceptional, and above all, they demonstrate the global enthusiasm for the 2026 World Cup, FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement. The whole world wants to be part of this historic event, which will bring together 48 teams in 16 cities and mark a new era for football.

The governing body announced that the results of the pre-sale draw will be communicated gradually beginning Monday, 29 September, with successful applicants able to proceed with purchases from Wednesday, 1 October.

FIFA emphasised, however, that being selected in the draw does not guarantee tickets, as allocations remain subject to availability.

Prices for group-stage tickets will begin at USD 60, with packages available by match, team, or host city.

In addition, FIFA will launch an official resale platform on 2 October to allow supporters to transfer tickets securely, aiming to curb exploitation by unofficial vendors.

Attention will soon turn to the next phase of sales, titled the Early Ticket Draw, which opens on Monday, 27 October.

FIFA has urged fans to consult its official ticketing site for details and to avoid unauthorised channels that could put purchases at risk.

The extraordinary demand in this first phase underscores the anticipation surrounding what will be the largest World Cup ever staged.

Expanding to 48 teams and spread across three nations for the first time, the 2026 edition is expected to break records both in scale and attendance, further cementing its status as the most widely watched sporting event in the world.