Demand for tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026 reached record levels, with more than half a billion ticket requests submitted during the tournament’s “Random Selection Draw” sales phase, FIFA announced.
The application window ran from Dec. 11 through Jan. 13, during which fans reportedly submitted an average of around 15 million ticket requests per day over the 33-day period.
Applications were received from fans in every country and territory that is governed by FIFA’s 211 member associations, a result that the soccer organization says reflects the global reach of the upcoming World Cup — which stands as the first in the event’s history to feature an expanded 48-team field.
In addition to the three host nations (the United States, Mexico and Canada), FIFA says that the largest number of applications came from fans based in Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Colombia.
The most sought-after match during this sales phase was Colombia vs. Portugal, scheduled for June 27 in Miami. Other high-demand games included Mexico vs. Korea Republic on June 18 in Guadalajara, the opener between Mexico and South Africa on June 11 in Mexico City, as well as the World Cup final on July 19.
“Half a billion ticket requests in just over a month is more than demand — it’s a global statement,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “On behalf of FIFA, I would like to thank and congratulate football fans everywhere for this extraordinary response.”
With the sales phase now closed, FIFA Ticketing will verify applications and allocate tickets through a random selection process. Fans will be notified of the results by email beginning Feb. 5.
Unsuccessful applicants will have another chance during the “Last-Minute Sales” phase, when remaining tickets go on sale closer to the tournament on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Knowing how much this tournament means to people around the world, our only regret is that we cannot welcome every fan inside the stadiums,” said Infantino. “That is why we are committed to creating multiple ways for fans to be part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 — through a wide range of fan experiences beyond the stadiums, both in person and online — so that as many people as possible can share in what will be the biggest sporting event ever staged.”
The FIFA World Cup begins on June 11 with Atlanta set to host eight matches — including one of the semi-final games.