TICKETS for the FIFA World Cup 2026 are on sale now – and SunSport can point you in the right direction for where to purchase them!
Spanning the , and , here’s what you need to know to ensure you don’t miss your chance to experience the beautiful game’s biggest international tournament.
World Cup tickets are on sale now Credit: Reuters
The MetLife stadium will host the final and boasts the most expensive package deals Credit: Getty
FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets from StubHub
FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets from Viagogo
FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets from Hellotickets
With millions of fans worldwide vying for seats, understanding the ticket acquisition process is absolutely crucial.
The competition will be fierce, prices will be eye-watering, and timing will be everything.
Heimo Schirgi, Fifa World Cup 26 chief operating officer said: “We already have seen massive interest from around the world for this tournament, and especially from within the host countries as Canada, Mexico and the United States prepare to host the biggest Fifa World Cup yet.
“This second phase, with its host country domestic exclusivity time slot, will allow us to say thank you to these local fans, while ensuring global opportunity as well.”
How much will World Cup tickets cost?
tickets will reflecting the tournament’s expanded format and increased demand.
Tickets are being sold in four categories, with prices starting at $60 for group-stage games and going up to $6,730 for the final.
This edition will also use dynamic pricing, which could change rates depending on demand – something Oasis fans learnt the hard way.
Factor in travel, accommodation, and local expenses for a realistic total investment calculation.
The tournament’s North American locations add complexity and cost to international travel plans.
For some consumers heading into the tournament, visas will be a particular concern, especially as the USA cracks down on immigration.
It is also important to remember that currency exchange rates and accommodation scarcity will impact your overall budget significantly.
Are hospitality packages worth it?
Hospitality packages represent the most expensive but most comprehensive World Cup experience.
These premium offerings combine match tickets with exclusive amenities, dining experiences, and VIP treatment.
Package options range from basic hospitality additions to full luxury experiences, including private transportation, premium accommodations, and exclusive venue access.
Package options range from basic hospitality additions to full luxury experiences, including private transportation, premium accommodations, and exclusive venue access.
The costs reflect the comprehensive nature of these offerings but guarantee an unforgettable tournament experience.
For serious and soccer enthusiasts with substantial budgets, hospitality packages offer the ultimate World Cup experience.
The premium you pay extends beyond just match access to encompass the entire tournament atmosphere.
Avoid getting scammed in the resale market
Third-party ticket retailers present significant risks despite apparent convenience.
While some legitimate secondary market options exist, this territory is fraught with potential scams and overpriced offerings.
Authorised Fifa partners represent the safest third-party option, but even these come with substantial mark-ups over face value.
Unauthorised resellers pose serious risks, including invalid tickets, fraud, and potential legal complications at venue entry points.
If considering third-party options, verify authorisation status through Fifa’s official channels.
The savings rarely justify the risks involved with unauthorised retailers.
When did World Cup 2026 tickets go on sale?
ticket sales started with Phase 1, the Visa Presale Draw, which ran between September 10 and 19, 2025.
It was exclusively for Visa cardholders and was limited to fans who were selected through a lottery system.
Over a million tickets were released in Phase 1, with the overall capacity expected to exceed 7 million seats across all venues.
Phase 2, the Early Ticket Draw, runs from October 27 to 31, 2025 at 3 pm GMT (11 am ET), allowing fans to apply for another million tickets via Fifa.com/tickets.
When did the ballot open?
Phase 3, the ballot, opens on December 11 at 4pm UK time and slams shut on January 13.
Fans can submit applications for tickets to the matches they wish to attend.
Individuals can buy a maximum of four tickets per match and a limit of 40 across the entire tournament per household.
Either log in using your account or visit the Fifa website and create one – this unique ID is required to participate in any ticket lottery.
If you are randomly selected in the draw, Fifa will notify you via email, which will include a designated date and time window when you can access the purchasing portal – this slot typically lasts 24 to 72 hours.
During your assigned time slot, log into the Fifa ticketing portal, where tickets can sell out very quickly.
Following the general entry period, host-nation residents – Canada, Mexico and the US – have a 72-hour priority window starting November 12 for 75% of single-match tickets in their respective countries.
After this period, both host-nation and global fans who entered the draw will be eligible for a random time slot to purchase remaining tickets.
Additional tickets will be made available in subsequent phases.
We already have seen massive interest from around the world for this tournament
Heimo Schirgi, Fifa World Cup 26 chief operating officer
Understanding the lottery system
Fifa’s lottery system democratises ticket distribution, but it’s essentially a high-stakes gamble with your World Cup dreams.
This random selection process ensures fairness but removes any control from the equation.
The lottery operates across multiple phases, with different match categories and price points available.
Premium matches, such as the opening ceremony, , will attract millions of applications due to their limited availability.
If you are one of the lucky Fifa ticket lottery winners, you will receive an email with a time slot Credit: Getty
Your chances improve slightly for group stage matches, particularly those not featuring major footballing nations.
Strategic lottery applications require careful consideration.
You’ll need to prioritise which matches matter most, as successful applications are legally binding purchases.
The system doesn’t guarantee you’ll get your first choice – or any choice.
There are other ways to get tickets other than shelling out big bucks.
American Airlines announced last month that its AAdvantage loyalty program members can redeem miles for World Cup tickets.
The scheme started on October 13 for executive platinum and concierge key members, on October 14 for platinum pro, platinum and gold members, and October 15 by all members.
FIFA’s “Right to Buy” system explained
FIFA’s “Right to Buy” system offers guaranteed ticket access, but you can expect to pay significantly more for this privilege.
This premium pathway bypasses the lottery uncertainty but comes with substantial financial commitments.
The Right to Buy system typically includes mandatory hospitality packages, accommodation bookings, and transportation arrangements.
These ensure your World Cup experience, but at costs that can easily reach thousands of pounds per person.
Consider this option if budget isn’t your primary concern and guaranteed attendance outweighs cost considerations.
The 2026 Fifa World Cup will begin on Thursday, June 11, 2026
The peace of mind comes with a hefty price tag, but it eliminates the stress of lottery uncertainty.
How to maximise your chances
Successful World Cup ticket acquisition demands strategic thinking and multiple backup plans.
The most prepared fans pursue several simultaneous pathways to maximise their opportunities.
Register for every legitimate opportunity: FIFA’s general sale, Visa presales, lottery systems, and authorised partner offerings.
Diversifying your approach significantly improves your overall chances of securing tickets.
Consider flexibility in your match selections, travel dates, and venue preferences.
The most rigid plans often result in disappointment, while adaptable fans find unexpected opportunities.
FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets from StubHub
FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets from Viagogo
FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets from Hellotickets
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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