FIFA announced on January 19 a record-breaking over 500 million ticket requests for the 2026 World Cup from fans across all 211 member associations during the initial 33-day sales phase, averaging 15 million daily despite backlash over high prices.
The first ticket sales window for the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup—co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada across 104 matches from June 11 to July 19—followed the match schedule draw on December 5. Applications from December 11 to January 13 shattered records, climbing from 150 million late last month to over 500 million total, with each requiring unique credit card validation.
Demand was highest from Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina, and Colombia, alongside host nations. Top-requested matches included Colombia vs. Portugal (June 27, Miami), Mexico vs. Korea Republic (June 18, Guadalajara), Mexico's opener vs. South Africa (June 11, Mexico City), the final (July 19, East Rutherford, New Jersey), and a round-of-32 clash (July 2, Toronto).
"Half a billion ticket requests in just over a month is more than demand—it's a global statement," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. "On behalf of FIFA, I would like to thank and congratulate football fans everywhere for this extraordinary response. Knowing how much this tournament means to people around the world, our only regret is that we cannot welcome every fan inside the stadiums. That is why we are committed to creating multiple ways for fans to be part of the FIFA World Cup 2026—through a wide range of fan experiences beyond the stadiums, both in person and online—so that as many people as possible can share in what will be the biggest sporting event ever staged."
FIFA will verify applications and allocate tickets randomly via a draw, with notifications from February 5 by email. Unsuccessful fans can access 'Last-Minute Sales' on a first-come, first-served basis closer to the event. An official resale marketplace launched January 15 for secure exchanges and to combat counterfeits.
The surge signals massive anticipation six months before the final, with host cities like Atlanta gearing up for eight matches, including a semi-final. However, controversy lingers over pricing—deemed 'extortionate' by groups like Football Supporters Europe, up to five times 2022 levels. FIFA introduced a $60 category in December, but secondary market prices remain high (e.g., ~$3,100 for Mexico's opener, $1,500 for the U.S. opener vs. Paraguay). No match-by-match breakdowns have been released, raising attendance concerns for less prominent games at venues like Levi's Stadium.
