FIFA reported Thursday that more than 1 million tickets have been sold for the 2026 World Cup in North America, marking strong early demand since sales began earlier this month. Buyers hail from 212 countries and territories, with the highest interest from host nations U.S., Canada and Mexico. The tournament, featuring 48 teams across 104 matches, runs from June 11 to July 19.
FIFA's update highlights the rapid response to ticket sales for the expanded 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The first phase of sales launched as a presale for Visa cardholders and FIFA ID holders from September 10 to 19, with selected fans notified starting September 29 and able to purchase from October 1. Each buyer could acquire up to four tickets per match or 40 for the tournament. This initial lottery drew 4.5 million applicants last month, resulting in the 1 million-plus sales announced Thursday.
Demand is led by the host countries, followed by England, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Argentina and France in the top 10 for purchases. Only 28 of the 48 team spots are filled, including 13 already qualified nations like Argentina and Brazil. The tournament introduces dynamic pricing, with group stage tickets starting at $60 and final seats reaching up to $6,710. For context, the U.S. opening match on June 12 in Inglewood, California, starts at $560, while resale prices for that game hit $61,642. The World Cup final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, lists resale tickets from $9,538 to $57,500.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed enthusiasm in a release: “As national teams across the globe compete for a place at the historic FIFA World Cup 26, I am thrilled so many football-loving fans also want to be part of this watershed event in North America.” He added, “It’s an incredible response, and a wonderful sign that the biggest, most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history is capturing the imagination of supporters everywhere.”
The next ticket draw opens October 27, with a second phase from mid-November to early December and a third after the December 5 team draw. Roughly 7.1 million seats are available across 16 venues, though public availability details remain undisclosed. Challenges include potential visa issues for international fans amid U.S. immigration policies, and President Donald Trump's comments on relocating matches from sites like suburban Boston if deemed unsafe.
In related news, NBA star Luka Doncic, a Real Madrid fan, was named an ambassador for Southern California matches. “I’ve always been a football fan,” Doncic said. “Los Angeles is a great city full of amazing people who love to play and watch every sport. I can’t wait for the World Cup and it’s an honor to help bring people together through a sport that connects so many cultures around the globe.”