The race for 2026 FIFA World Cup seats entered a high-stakes final stretch today as soccer’s governing body released a massive new wave of tickets. Starting at 11 a.m. ET on Wednesday, April 22, fans gained access to inventory for all 104 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This latest drop coincides with the 50-day countdown to the tournament’s opening match. Over five million tickets have already been sold for the expanded 48-team event, which is expected to break all-time attendance records.
FIFA officials emphasized that the only legitimate way to purchase tickets is through the official portal at FIFA.com/tickets. The current “Last-Minute Sales Phase” operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning transactions are processed immediately upon selection.
Due to the extreme volume of fans, the site has implemented digital queues. Once through the waiting room, users can use interactive maps to select specific seats. FIFA confirmed that more tickets will continue to be released periodically until the final on July 19, depending on remaining inventory and stadium configurations.
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While millions of tickets were sold in earlier lottery phases, today’s release includes a wide range of options:
- Standard Categories: Categories 1 through 3 remain the primary options for most fans.
- Entry Level: A “Supporter Entry Tier” was introduced at a fixed price of $60 for all matches, including the final, though these are limited in quantity.
- Premium Options: Front-row seats and premium categories are available for those seeking closer proximity to the pitch.
- Hospitality: Fans looking for luxury suites or food and beverage packages can still find availability at FIFA.com/hospitality.
Organizers issued a warning regarding third-party websites and unofficial resellers. Tickets purchased outside of the official FIFA platform may be invalid or canceled without notice.
For fans who can no longer attend, FIFA has opened an official Resale Marketplace. This platform allows original buyers to sell their tickets at face value to other fans in a secure environment, providing a safe alternative for those who missed out on the initial drops.
With matches spread across three countries, officials reminded ticket holders that a match ticket does not serve as a travel visa. Fans traveling to the United States for games may be eligible for a specialized visa appointment system designed specifically for World Cup attendees to help streamline the entry process.
The tournament kicks off on June 11, 2026, with the opening match featuring Mexico at the Estadio Azteca.
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