World Cup Tickets are about to go on sale. The first presale phase for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been announced, offering an exclusive opportunity for Visa cardholders to secure their seats. This initial window, orchestrated by FIFA in partnership with Visa, marks the beginning of the journey for fans hoping to attend the expanded tournament, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 host cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. According to FIFA.com/tickets, registering for a FIFA ID is the first step for interested fans.
The Presale Process: Key Details
The presale operates as a lottery-style draw, allowing eligible fans to enter for a chance to purchase individual match tickets, venue-specific packages, or team-specific packages. This exclusive opportunity is available to Visa debit, credit, and prepaid cardholders who are 18 years or older. The entry period opens on Tuesday, September 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET and closes on Friday, September 19, 2025. Notifications to successful applicants will begin on September 29, with assigned purchasing time slots in October. However, it’s important to note that winning a time slot does not guarantee ticket availability.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Presale Opens: September 10, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET
- Presale Closes: September 19, 2025
- Winner Notifications Begin: September 29, 2025
- Purchasing Time Slots: October 2025
How to Participate in the Presale
To participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket presale, several steps must be followed carefully. Eligibility is restricted to Visa cardholders, and registration for a FIFA ID is mandatory. The entire application process is conducted online via FIFA’s official ticketing website. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process:
Step-by-Step Guide
- Register for a FIFA ID: Visit FIFA.com/tickets and complete the registration process. This is a prerequisite for entering the presale draw.
- Ensure Visa Card Eligibility: Confirm that you have a valid Visa debit, credit, or prepaid card. The presale is exclusively for Visa cardholders.
- Access the Ticketing Portal: Starting September 10, 2025, access the official FIFA ticketing portal at FIFA.com/tickets.
- Enter the Draw: Follow the instructions to enter the lottery-style draw. You can select your preferred ticket types, such as individual match tickets or packages.
- Await Notification: Successful applicants will receive notifications via email starting September 29, 2025. These notifications will include assigned purchasing time slots in October.
- Complete Purchase: During your assigned time slot, log back into the ticketing portal and complete your purchase. Remember that ticket availability is not guaranteed.
Ticket Pricing and Dynamic Pricing
Understanding the ticket pricing structure is crucial for potential attendees. Ticket prices for group-stage matches will start at $60, offering an accessible entry point for many fans. However, the most coveted seats for the final could reach up to $6,730. This significant price range reflects the high demand and prestige associated with the final match. For the first time, FIFA will implement a dynamic pricing structure, meaning prices may adjust based on demand. This approach aims to optimize revenue and manage the high level of interest in the tournament.
Dynamic Pricing Explained
Dynamic pricing involves adjusting ticket prices in real-time based on factors such as demand, seat location, and opponent popularity. According to FIFA, this strategy ensures fair market value and maximizes revenue, which is reinvested into the tournament’s organization and development. Fans should be prepared for potential price fluctuations and consider purchasing tickets early to secure better rates.
Beyond the Presale: Other Opportunities
While the Visa presale offers an initial opportunity to secure tickets, it is not the only chance for fans to attend the World Cup. FIFA has announced that multiple sales phases will follow this presale, providing additional opportunities for fans to purchase tickets. One of these is an “Early Ticket Draw,” expected in late October. Additionally, FIFA will operate an official resale platform closer to the tournament, allowing fans to buy and sell tickets securely.
Future Sales Phases and Resale Platform
The “Early Ticket Draw” in late October will provide another chance for fans to secure tickets. Details about this draw will be released by FIFA closer to the date. The official resale platform, which will launch closer to the tournament, will offer a safe and legitimate way for fans to buy and sell tickets at face value. This platform aims to combat ticket scalping and ensure that tickets remain accessible to genuine fans. FIFA strongly advises against purchasing tickets from unofficial sources, as these tickets may be invalid or counterfeit.
Tournament Expansion and Global Impact
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the largest tournament in history, with an expanded format featuring 48 teams and 104 matches. This expansion will significantly increase the number of participating nations and matches, providing more opportunities for fans to witness world-class football. The tournament will be hosted across 16 cities in three North American countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This unprecedented collaboration will showcase the diverse cultures and landscapes of the region.
Host Cities and Economic Benefits
The 16 host cities are expected to experience significant economic benefits from the tournament. These benefits include increased tourism, job creation, and infrastructure development. According to various news reports published on September 3, 5, and 8, 2025, the tournament is projected to generate billions of dollars in economic activity across North America. The host cities will also gain valuable exposure on the global stage, enhancing their reputations as premier destinations for sports and entertainment.
Preparing for High Demand
Given the tournament’s scale and global appeal, demand for tickets is expected to be exceptionally high. Fans are encouraged to register early for a FIFA ID and be aware of the various sales phases. Patience and persistence will be key, as securing tickets may require multiple attempts. It is also important to stay informed about official announcements and guidelines from FIFA to avoid falling victim to scams or unofficial ticket sellers.
Tips for Securing Tickets
- Register Early: Create a FIFA ID as soon as possible to ensure you are ready for the presale and future sales phases.
- Stay Informed: Monitor FIFA’s official website and social media channels for updates and announcements.
- Be Patient: The ticket application process may be competitive, so be prepared for potential delays and challenges.
- Use Official Channels: Only purchase tickets through FIFA’s official ticketing portal or the official resale platform.
- Avoid Scams: Be wary of unofficial ticket sellers and offers that seem too good to be true.
Conclusion
Securing tickets for the FIFA World Cup 2026 requires careful planning and timely action. The initial Visa presale offers an exclusive opportunity, but fans should also be prepared for subsequent sales phases and the official resale platform. By staying informed, registering early, and using official channels, fans can increase their chances of witnessing the largest and most exciting World Cup in history. Remember to visit FIFA.com/tickets for the most up-to-date information and guidelines.
