The 2026 FIFA World Cup™ is shaping up to be the biggest sporting event in history, and demand for tickets is already reaching fever pitch. For millions of fans, the dream of attending is very real, but the process of getting tickets can seem complex and overwhelming. When do tickets go on sale? How many can I buy? What should I do if I miss one of the lottery phases?
This is your one-stop guide to answering all your questions about the 2026 World Cup ticketing process. We’ll detail the deadlines, rules and strategies to give you the best possible chance of being there in person.
When will tickets for the 2026 World Cup go on sale? The official sales phases
FIFA has structured ticket sales into four distinct phases, providing multiple opportunities for fans. Missing one doesn’t mean your dream is over. Here is the official schedule:
Phase 1: The VISA pre-sale lottery (from September 10 to 19, 2025)
This was the very first counter reserved exclusively for VISA card holders. It was a raffle, meaning you asked for tickets and hoped your name would be chosen. Successful applicants were given a time slot to purchase tickets from available inventory.
Phase 2: The first general lottery (October 27 – 31, 2025)
This was the second “blind” lottery, open to all fans regardless of payment method. As in the first phase, it was a draw to try to buy tickets. These two initial phases occurred Before the final draw, so candidates applied for matches based on date and location, not specific teams.
Phase 3: Post-draw lottery (starts December 2025)
This is the next major opportunity. Final World Cup draw set December 5, 2025. For the first time, we will know the full schedule for the group stage. This phase is another lottery, but it is no longer blind. You can apply for a specific match (e.g. Brazil vs Germany in Los Angeles). Expect incredibly high competition.
Phase 4: The final phase on a first-come, first-served basis (spring 2026)
This is the last chance show. As the name suggests, it is a direct sale in real time on the FIFA portal. It’s a frantic race: whoever arrives first gets the tickets. This phase often includes tickets from unsold hospitality packages and sponsor allocations, so surprisingly good seats may become available.
“I missed the first draw. What is my next option?”
If you missed the first two phases of the lottery, don’t panic! You still have two excellent opportunities to obtain tickets through official channels:
- The post-draw lottery (December 2025): This is your next big chance. Once the draw ends on December 5, you will know all the matches. You can then enter this lottery to request tickets to see your favorite team or a blockbuster game.
- The first-come, first-served final phase (spring 2026): This is your last chance to get face value tickets directly from FIFA. Be ready for when this phase opens, as it will be a digital sprint.
There is also the Official FIFA resale platformwhich usually opens closer to the tournament. This is the only safe and legitimate way to purchase tickets from other fans who can no longer attend.
How many World Cup tickets can I buy? Understand the limits
This is one of the most common questions. FIFA has strict rules to ensure fair distribution.
- Per match: You can apply for a maximum of 4 tickets per match.
- By household: A single household can request tickets for a maximum 10 matches in total over the entire tournament.
- What is a “Foyer”? FIFA defines a household by a shared postal address. If multiple requests are made from the same address, the total number of tickets for all requests cannot exceed the limits.
- The “By date” rule: Please note: the “4 tickets per match” rule is often applied as a “4 tickets per match date” rule. This means that if you buy 4 tickets for a game in one city on June 24, you may not be able to buy tickets for another game on the same day in another city.
A step-by-step guide to requesting tickets
The process takes place exclusively on the official FIFA ticketing portal. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:
- Create an account: You will need a FIFA Ticketing account. It is best to create this well in advance of any sales phase.
- Enter the queue: During a sales phase, you will first enter a waiting room and then be placed in a queue to access the main portal.
- Select your tickets: Once inside, you can browse matches by location, date or team (depending on phase). You will select the desired match and ticket category.
- Submit your application: For the lottery phases, you will submit your application with your payment information. If you succeed, your card will be charged automatically. For first come, first served phases, you will proceed directly to payment.
Understanding ticket types, categories and prices
Not all tickets are created equal. Here’s what you’re buying:
- Ticket types:
- Single match tickets: For a specific game.
- Site Specific Ticket Series (VSTS): A package for all matches in a specific stadium.
- Team Specific Ticket Series (TSTS): A package that follows a specific team throughout the group stage.
- Ticket categories: Seats are divided into four categories.
- Category 1: The most expensive and privileged seats on the sidelines.
- Category 2: Corner seats or higher level side seats.
- Category 3: More affordable seats, usually in the upper tier behind the goals.
- Category 4: The most affordable, reserved exclusively for residents of the host countries (USA, Canada, Mexico). For a visual breakdown, see our Stadium seating plans and category guide for the 2026 World Cup.
- Ticket prices: Prices vary considerably depending on the match and category. Group stage matches can start at just $60 for Category 4, while the finals can cost thousands of dollars. For a full breakdown, read our guide on 2026 World Cup ticket prices.
The World Cup draw: how it affects your ticketing strategy
THE Final draw on December 5, 2025, is the most important day for ticket strategy.
- Before the draw: In “blind” lotteries, you apply for games without knowing the teams. This is a great strategy if you just want to experience any World Cup match. Your chances may be slightly better for less publicized dates or locations.
- After the draw: The post-draw lottery allows you to target specific games that you can’t miss. The competition will be tough, but the price is a confirmed blockbuster.
Understanding potential matches is essential. Which teams could your nation draw? What would be the “Group of Death”? You can explore all the possibilities now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I sell my tickets if I can’t attend?
A: Yes, but only via the Official FIFA resale platform. This is the only way to sell your tickets legitimately and securely. Do not use third-party sites.
Q: Can I choose my exact seat?
A: No. During the sales phases, you only purchase one category of tickets. FIFA allocates specific seats later.
Q: Do I need to purchase tickets if my lottery application is successful?
A: Yes. For lottery phases, you provide payment details in advance. If your request is successful, your card is automatically charged. You agree to purchase the tickets for which you apply.
Q: What happens if my payment fails?
A: You will be notified and usually given a very short period of time (e.g. 24 hours) to resolve the payment issue. If you do not do so, your tickets will be lost.
Conclusion: Your journey to the World Cup
Getting tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes patience, preparation and a little luck. By understanding the sales phases, ticket limits and the drawing process, you can develop a strategy that maximizes your chances.
Remember to participate in all possible phases, be realistic in the face of immense demand and use official FIFA channels exclusively. Good luck!
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