When Do World Cup Tickets Go on Sale? The Complete 2026 Guide 🗓️⚽

Published: May 20, 2024 Read Time: 25 min Author: PlayWorldCupTickets Editorial
World Cup 2026 Ticket Sale Dates FIFA Official Guide
Fans celebrating at a World Cup stadium with tickets in hand

Image: The electrifying atmosphere of a World Cup match – the ultimate goal for every ticket holder.

The burning question on every football fan's mind is: "When do World Cup tickets go on sale?" For the monumental 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the answer is more nuanced than ever. This isn't just a single date; it's a multi-phase process involving a ticket draw, staggered sales windows, and venue-specific releases. Our deep dive, crafted with exclusive insights and official data patterns, will be your ultimate playbook to navigate the ticket sale timeline, avoid common pitfalls, and secure your seat for football's greatest spectacle. 🏆

💡 Key Insight (2026 Update): Based on historical cycles and FIFA's expanded 48-team format, the first official ticket sale phase (often called "Phase 1" or the "Random Selection Draw") is projected to open in early 2025. However, registration for the draw will likely begin in late 2024. This guide breaks down every phase, from the initial draw to the last-minute resale platform openings.

1. The Official FIFA Ticket Sale Phases: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

FIFA structures World Cup ticket sales into clear, sequential phases. Missing one doesn't mean you're out, but it does change your strategy.

Phase 1: The Random Selection Draw (Projected: Q1 2025)

This is the first and most critical chance to get tickets at face value. You don't buy immediately; you apply during an application window (likely 4-6 weeks). After the window closes, FIFA runs a lottery to allocate tickets for high-demand matches. This ensures fairness. You'll need to register on FIFA's official ticket portal and provide payment details upfront. If successful, your card is charged. This phase covers all match types, from opening games to the final.

Phase 2: First-Come, First-Served (Projected: Mid-Late 2025)

After the draw, remaining tickets (and new inventory released post-final draw) go on sale on a real-time basis. This is where speed and preparation matter. Having your account pre-verified and being online the minute sales open is crucial. For detailed strategies on navigating World Cup tickets phase 2, check our dedicated guide.

Phase 3: Last-Minute Sales & Hospitality (2026 - Tournament Time)

As the tournament approaches, FIFA releases final batches, including returned ticket contingents. This is also when official hospitality packages (often including premium seats, lounges, and transfers) become more available. Additionally, the FIFA Resale Platform opens, allowing fans to buy and sell tickets safely at face value. This is a legitimate way to find tickets closer to match day.

2. The Role of the Final Draw in Ticket Sales

The World Cup tickets draw isn't just about fixtures; it dictates ticket availability. The official Final Draw, where groups and schedules are set, occurs months before the tournament (estimated late 2025 for 2026). After this draw, specific team match-ups are known, causing a surge in demand for certain venues. FIFA often holds back a portion of tickets to release post-draw, meaning a significant "Phase 2" sale happens afterwards. If your team qualifies, this is your targeted buying period.

Related Ticket Guides for Specific Needs:

3. Exclusive Data: Comparing 2014, 2018, 2022 Sale Timelines

Our analysis of previous cycles reveals a pattern:

  • 2014 Brazil: Phase 1 application window: Aug 20 – Oct 10, 2013 (14 months prior).
  • 2018 Russia: Phase 1: Sep 14 – Oct 12, 2017 (9 months prior).
  • 2022 Qatar: Phase 1: Jan 19 – Feb 8, 2022 (10 months prior, unique due to timing).

The trend suggests FIFA aims for the first sales window to open 9-15 months before the tournament. For 2026, with its complexity and three host nations, we predict a longer lead time, hence the early 2025 projection.

4. Insider Tips to Secure Your Tickets

✅ Register Early: Create accounts on FIFA's official site and your national football association site.

✅ Be Flexible: Apply for multiple match combinations in the draw to increase odds. Consider different cities and categories.

✅ Budget Realistically: Understand the full World Cup tickets cost, including accommodation and flights, which spike near matches.

✅ Beware of Scalpers: Only use FIFA's official channels or authorized resellers. Unofficial platforms like Stubhub carry risks of fraud or invalid tickets.

✅ Target Venue Releases: Some host cities may have local promotions or early sales. Follow venues like Atlanta, Boston, and Kansas City for updates.

5. What About Ticket Prices? (2026 Projections)

While official World Cup tickets prices won't be announced until late 2024, we can extrapolate. The 2026 expansion to 48 teams and 104 matches may create a wider price range. Expect category 4 (resident discount) tickets to start around $50-$80 for group matches, while premium finals tickets could exceed $2,000. Our dedicated price guide has a full breakdown.

The journey to answer "when do World Cup tickets go on sale" is complex but manageable with the right information. By understanding the phases, preparing your strategy, and acting decisively, you can transform from an eager fan into a ticket-holding attendee at the biggest sporting event on the planet.