FIFA has confirmed that the third phase of ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup will commence on December 11, 2023. This phase, which follows the tournament’s final draw, marks the first opportunity for fans to purchase single-match tickets based on specific matchups. Fans supporting particular national teams may also apply for Participating Member Association (PMA) supporter tickets starting on the same date.
As of now, FIFA has reported that over two million tickets have already been sold. The majority of these tickets have been purchased by residents of the host countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Following these nations, significant ticket purchases have come from fans in England, Germany, Brazil, Colombia, Spain, Argentina, and France. Fans from 212 countries and territories have expressed interest in attending the matches.
In a statement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated those who have secured their tickets: “Congratulations to everyone who has already booked their seats and for those who haven’t, a new opportunity begins on Thursday, December 11, just days after the Final Draw in Washington D.C.”
World Cup Overview and Venue Information
The tournament is set to kick off with the opening match in Mexico City on June 11, 2026, and will culminate with the final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 19, 2026. A total of 78 matches will be held across eleven U.S. cities, with additional games taking place in three cities in Mexico and two in Canada.
Heimo Schirgi, FIFA World Cup 2026 Chief Operating Officer, noted the growing global interest in the event: “With 42 teams already qualified, we are witnessing huge global interest as we prepare to soon find out most of the match-ups, as well as where and when they will take place.”
Visa Information and Ticket Access
In a recent meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Infantino announced that World Cup ticket holders would be granted prioritized visa interviews prior to arriving in the United States for the tournament. This initiative, known as the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System, or FIFA PASS, aims to ease the entry process for international visitors while balancing the country’s immigration policies.
FIFA has emphasized that holding a match ticket does not ensure admission to the host countries. Fans are advised to check the government websites of Canada, Mexico, and the United States for specific entry requirements. Additionally, FIFA recommends applying for visas as early as possible to avoid any last-minute complications.
The draw for the tournament, scheduled to take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., will see the 48 teams divided into four pots. These teams will then be assigned to 12 groups of four teams each. An updated match schedule, detailing the stadium assignments and kickoff times, will be released on December 6, 2023.
With excitement building, fans around the world are preparing for what promises to be the largest FIFA World Cup to date.
