FIFA has opened the second phase of 2026 World Cup ticket sales, offering fans in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico exclusive access to a new draw for single-match tickets. Over 1 million tickets have already been sold, marking record-breaking global demand.
FIFA has officially launched the second phase of ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup, opening another opportunity for fans worldwide to secure seats for what is being called the biggest tournament in football history.
The global governing body announced Monday that over one million tickets have already been sold, with fans from 212 countries showing unprecedented interest in the North American–hosted tournament.
The upcoming draw phase runs through 11 a.m. Friday, featuring a domestic exclusivity window for residents of the three host nations — the United States, Canada, and Mexico. During this window, local fans will have first priority to purchase single-match tickets for games within their home countries.
“We already have seen massive interest from around the world for this tournament, and especially from within the host countries as Canada, Mexico, and the United States prepare to host the biggest FIFA World Cup yet,”
said Heimo Schirgi, FIFA’s Chief Operating Officer for the 2026 event.
“This second phase, with its host country domestic exclusivity time slot, will allow us to say ‘thank you’ to these local fans, while ensuring global opportunity as well.”
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How the FIFA Second Phase Works
Fans have until Friday, 11 a.m. ET to enter the ticket draw. Those selected through FIFA’s randomized system will receive an exclusive purchase time slot starting November 12, with access valid through November 15.
Successful applicants will be notified at least 48 hours before their slot begins. Once the domestic exclusivity period ends, more tickets will become available to international fans starting November 17, with additional rounds expected later this year.
Massive Global Demand and Ticket Data
According to FIFA, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico — in that order — have accounted for the highest number of ticket purchases so far. They are followed by England, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and France, rounding out the top ten.
Early ticket data reveals that lower-tier seats start around $60 USD, while premium seats can cost upwards of $2,700. The opening U.S. match in Inglewood, California saw ticket listings soar to over $60,000 on resale sites, underscoring the extraordinary demand.
For context, the 2026 tournament will feature 104 matches across 16 cities in North America — including Philadelphia, where six matches will be held at Lincoln Financial Field. Based on stadium capacities, FIFA estimates roughly 7.1 million total seats will be available across all venues, though not all will be open for public sale.
Dynamic Pricing and Ticket Categories
For the first time in World Cup history, FIFA is implementing dynamic pricing — meaning ticket costs may fluctuate based on demand, timing, and seat location.
Fans can choose from four seating categories:
Category 1: Premium seats (best views and central sections)
Category 2 & 3: Mid-range pricing with standard views
Category 4: Upper-level seats and budget options
FIFA officials say the pricing model aims to balance accessibility with fair market demand, though many fans have expressed concern about rapidly rising resale prices.
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Visa Concerns and Travel Challenges
Despite record-breaking excitement, international fans face new logistical hurdles. With the U.S. tightening immigration and visa policies, some are concerned about travel approval delays.
A recent example came when a friendly match featuring Argentina and Lionel Messi was moved from Chicago to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, due to slow ticket sales — reportedly linked to visa and entry restrictions.
Still, FIFA remains optimistic that the joint-host model will create a more inclusive global experience, attracting both local fans and international tourists across 16 host cities.
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The Road to the 2026 World Cup
With 28 of the 48 qualifying spots already confirmed, anticipation continues to build ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup — the first ever to feature three host nations and an expanded 48-team format.
From New York to Mexico City, stadiums are being prepped to handle millions of spectators and global media coverage, ensuring the 2026 edition becomes the most-watched sporting event in history.
Summary
- FIFA opens second phase of 2026 World Cup ticket sales
- Exclusive draw for U.S., Canada, and Mexico residents until Friday
- Over 1 million tickets already sold from 212 countries
- Ticket prices range from $60 to over $2,700
- Dynamic pricing system introduced for the first time
- Visa and travel questions linger as fans prepare for the global event