FIFA has finished its third and final lottery for 2026 World Cup tickets, notifying successful applicants while informing millions of others of unsuccessful applications. Over 500 million requests were received, leaving many fans to explore remaining options like a last-minute sales phase. Resale markets offer alternatives, though at higher prices.
FIFA concluded the Random Selection Draw, the third phase of ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with notifications sent to applicants as of early February. Successful fans received emails confirming their allocations, with credit cards charged and tickets added to their FIFA accounts. Those not selected got messages stating, “Unfortunately, your application was not successful, and no tickets have been allocated for purchase.” The lottery drew over 500 million requests for the tournament's approximately 6 million tickets across 104 matches in 16 stadiums in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The first two phases sold about 2 million tickets, and the third phase's sales remain unspecified, but less than 1% of applicants succeeded. U.S. supporters groups are still awaiting results from their separate lottery via the U.S. Soccer Federation.
A final Last-Minute Sales Phase begins in early April on a first-come, first-served basis through FIFA's website. Details on available tickets and matches are pending, but it may include unsold or withheld inventory, potentially focusing on less popular games or higher-category seats. FIFA has not confirmed if tickets for all matches, including high-demand ones like the final at MetLife Stadium, will be offered.
For immediate access, resale platforms provide options. FIFA's official resale closes from February 22 to April 2, while sites like StubHub and SeatGeek remain open. Prices start around $200 for lesser matches but reach thousands for popular games; for example, the cheapest ticket for a Dallas semifinal is $498, and the final exceeds $8,000. FIFA warns that only its platform guarantees legitimacy, though third-party sites are legal in the U.S. and Canada with buyer protections.
Additionally, eligible Visa cardholders can access a limited early window from February 12 to 24 for select U.S. host city matches. Hospitality packages and credit card promotions offer further avenues, often at premium costs. Fans who won tickets but wish to sell can use resale sites, potentially recouping or profiting from their purchase.
