FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets Draw Millions Despite High Prices
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has already made history—long before the first ball is kicked. FIFA has confirmed that five million ticket requests were submitted within the first 24 hours of the latest sales phase, highlighting extraordinary global interest despite growing concerns over ticket prices.
The surge in demand demonstrates the unmatched popularity of football’s biggest event, even as supporters’ groups warn that rising costs could prevent ordinary fans from attending matches in person.
The ticket rush began when FIFA opened applications through its official website, attracting fans from more than 200 countries in a single day.
First 48-Team World Cup Drives Unprecedented Interest
The 2026 edition will be a landmark tournament, becoming the first FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams, expanding opportunities for nations across all continents.
Scheduled to run from 11 June to 19 July 2026, the tournament will be jointly hosted by:
- United States
- Canada
- Mexico
With matches spread across multiple iconic cities and venues, the expanded format has significantly increased global excitement, especially among nations that traditionally struggle to qualify.
This structural change has played a major role in the early ticket surge, as more countries expect to see their national teams compete on football’s biggest stage.
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FIFA World Cup 2026 : Criticism Over High Ticket Prices Grows
Despite the overwhelming demand, FIFA is facing mounting criticism over ticket pricing. Football Supporters Europe (FSE) has publicly called for a pause in national team ticket sales, describing the prices as “extortionate.”
According to FSE, some ticket categories are priced up to five times higher than the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, raising concerns that loyal supporters may be priced out.
The organization warned that football risks becoming an exclusive event accessible only to wealthier fans, undermining the sport’s inclusive global identity.
FIFA, however, has defended its pricing structure, citing operational costs, expanded venues, and the scale of the three-nation hosting model.
FIFA World Cup 2026 : Most Requested Matches Revealed
FIFA confirmed that group-stage matches are driving the highest ticket demand so far. The most requested fixture during the opening sales phase is:
- Colombia vs Portugal – Miami, 27 June
- Other highly sought-after matches include:
- Brazil vs Morocco – New York/New Jersey, 13 June
- Mexico vs South Korea – Guadalajara, 18 June
- Ecuador vs Germany – New York/New Jersey, 25 June
- Scotland vs Brazil – Miami, 24 June
These fixtures highlight the appeal of global heavyweights and emerging football nations alike, as fans rush to secure seats at marquee clashes.
FIFA World Cup 2026 : Top Countries Applying for Tickets
After the three host nations, FIFA revealed the countries with the highest number of ticket applications:
- Colombia
- England
- Ecuador
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Scotland
- Germany
- Australia
- France
- Panama
FIFA noted particularly strong interest from South and Central America, emphasizing the region’s deep-rooted football culture and passion.
Scotland’s presence among the top applicant countries is also significant, marking excitement over their return to the World Cup after 28 years.
How the FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticket Draw Works
FIFA has confirmed that ticket allocation during this phase will be handled through a Random Selection Draw system.
Key points include:
- The draw phase remains open until 13 January
- Application timing does not affect chances of success
- Fans can select:
- Specific matches
- Ticket categories
- Number of tickets (subject to household limits)
- Successful applicants will be charged automatically
This system is designed to ensure fairness amid overwhelming demand, though many fans remain anxious given the scale of applications.
Global Appeal Remains Unmatched
Despite criticism, the numbers speak for themselves. Five million applications in 24 hours reflect the unrivaled global appeal of the FIFA World Cup.
Even with higher prices, fans remain eager to be part of history, particularly with the tournament’s expanded format and multi-nation hosting model.
For many supporters, attending a World Cup is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—one worth stretching budgets for.
Historical Context: Rising World Cup Ticket Demand
World Cup ticket demand has grown dramatically over the decades. In earlier tournaments, tickets were often available locally, with minimal digital infrastructure.
The 2014 World Cup in Brazil marked a turning point, with online sales creating massive international competition for seats. This trend intensified further during the 2018 Russia and 2022 Qatar tournaments.
The 2026 World Cup, with 48 teams and three host nations, represents the largest and most complex edition ever—naturally pushing demand, costs, and expectations to unprecedented levels.
While pricing debates continue, history shows that World Cup demand rarely slows, regardless of controversy.
For official ticket updates and FIFA announcements, visit:
🔗 https://www.fifa.com
FAQs
1. How many ticket requests did FIFA receive for World Cup 2026?
FIFA received five million ticket applications within the first 24 hours of sales.
2. Why are fans criticizing ticket prices?
Supporters’ groups say prices are up to five times higher than Qatar 2022, making tickets unaffordable for many fans.
3. When will the FIFA World Cup 2026 be held?
The tournament will take place from 11 June to 19 July 2026.
4. Which countries are hosting the World Cup?
The event will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
5. Does applying early increase ticket chances?
No. FIFA confirmed that application timing does not affect selection during the draw phase.
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