FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticket Demand Shatters All Records
Football fans across the globe have shown incredible enthusiasm for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. The demand for tickets has reached unprecedented levels, setting a new benchmark for major sporting events worldwide.
Half a Billion Ticket Requests in Just Over a Month
During the Random Selection Draw ticket sales phase, which ran from December 11, 2025, to January 13, 2026, fans submitted more than 500 million ticket requests. FIFA confirmed this staggering number, highlighting the massive global interest in the tournament.
Each application required unique credit card details for verification. On average, fans placed around 15 million ticket requests every single day throughout the 33-day window.
Requests poured in from all countries and territories covered by FIFA's 211 Member Associations. This demonstrates the truly universal appeal of the World Cup.
Top Countries and Most Popular Matches
Apart from the host nations—Mexico, Canada, and the United States—the highest number of applications came from football powerhouses and passionate fan bases. Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina, and Colombia led the way in ticket requests.
The most in-demand match proved to be Colombia versus Portugal in Miami on June 27. Other top choices included the final in New York/New Jersey and the opening match in Mexico City.
FIFA President Acknowledges Extraordinary Fan Response
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his gratitude to football fans worldwide. He stated, "Half a billion ticket requests in just over a month is more than demand—it's a global statement. On behalf of FIFA, I would like to thank and congratulate football fans everywhere for this extraordinary response."
Infantino added, "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."
Fair Ticket Allocation and Next Steps
FIFA employs a random selection system to allocate tickets fairly when demand exceeds availability. After the application window closed, FIFA Ticketing began checking all requests to ensure they meet eligibility rules and household ticket limits.
Applicants will receive email notifications about their ticket request results after February 5. Successful or partially successful applicants will be automatically charged for the tickets they receive. A partially successful application means a fan may get tickets for some matches but not all they applied for.
Unsuccessful applicants will have another opportunity during the Last-Minute Sales phase, which opens closer to the tournament and continues until it ends. Tickets during this phase will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.
Official Ticket Purchasing Channels
FIFA strongly advises fans to purchase tickets only through FIFA.com/tickets. The organization also offers an official resale and exchange platform to protect fans from invalid or illegal ticket sales.
Hospitality Packages for Premium Experiences
For fans seeking guaranteed access and premium experiences, FIFA offers official hospitality packages. These provide assured entry to select matches along with enhanced stadium amenities.
Packages can be purchased for single matches or as part of multi-match series. Prices vary based on the match, venue, and comfort level. Single-match packages typically start at $1,400 (approximately ₹1.25 lakh) per person.
Different package types include:
- Venue Series: Provides access to all matches at a single stadium, featuring up to nine games. At the New York/New Jersey venue, this includes the final, with prices ranging from about $3,500 (₹3.15 lakh) to over $73,000 (nearly ₹66 lakh) per person.
- Follow My Team Series: Allows fans to watch one team through the group stage and potentially the Round of 32. This package starts at around $6,750 (more than ₹6 lakh).
- Ultra-luxury private suites and Platinum options are also available through special enquiries.
Additionally, fans can opt for all-inclusive travel packages offered by Qatar Airways. These combine match tickets with flights, hotels, and local transportation for a complete World Cup experience.
The overwhelming ticket demand clearly shows that the FIFA World Cup 2026 is poised to become the most anticipated sporting event in history, capturing the imagination of football enthusiasts everywhere.
