FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticket Frenzy: Over 500 Million Requests Pour In
Global fans flood FIFA with record-breaking ticket applications for the mega tournament.
FIFA has announced an unprecedented surge in interest for the 2026 World Cup, with more than 500 million ticket requests received during a 33-day application window that closed recently. This figure, described by FIFA President Gianni Infantino as "more than demand—it's a global statement," marks a new milestone in sporting history. The requests came from fans across all 211 FIFA member countries and territories, averaging about 15 million applications per day. Each request typically covers 1 to 4 tickets, suggesting potential interest in over a billion seats for the expanded 48-team event.
The co-hosted tournament across the United States, Mexico, and Canada is set to feature 104 matches from June 11 to July 19, 2026. The overwhelming response follows the release of the full schedule and group-stage draw in December 2025. Topping the wish list are high-profile clashes like Colombia vs. Portugal in Miami on June 27, the tournament opener featuring Mexico against South Africa in Mexico City, the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and other marquee fixtures involving powerhouses such as Argentina and Portugal. Beyond the host nations, the highest demand originated from Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina, and Colombia.
FIFA has already sold around 2 million tickets in earlier presale phases and estimates 4 to 5 million remaining across the competition. With demand vastly outstripping supply, successful allocations will be determined through random draws for oversubscribed matches, with notifications starting no earlier than February 5, 2026. Unsuccessful applicants may still have options via FIFA's official resale marketplace or last-minute sales closer to the event.
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This massive craze underscores the growing global passion for football, especially with the tournament's historic scale. However, it also highlights ongoing debates over ticket pricing, which has faced criticism for being significantly higher than past World Cups. Despite the challenges, FIFA emphasizes creating inclusive experiences both inside and beyond stadiums to let as many fans as possible join the celebration of what promises to be the biggest sporting event ever staged.
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