Global Demand Surges as FIFA Reports Record 500 Million Ticket Requests for 2026 World Cup

The 33-day ticket application window that closed this week produced an average of around 15 million ticket requests per day, FIFA announced, underscoring the extraordinary global excitement building for the 2026 World Cup. The record figure reflects applications from all corners of the world, with strong interest not only in the host nations but also from football supporters in Europe, South America and beyond. FIFA will inform applicants whether they have been successful beginning in early February, with oversubscribed matches to be allocated by random draw and additional sales phases planned closer to the tournament.

Unprecedented Global Interest Across All Member Nations

The sheer scale of ticket demand for the 2026 World Cup has shattered previous records, with fans in every region of the globe eager to attend matches next summer. During the recent ticket application period, valid requests were submitted by supporters in all 211 FIFA member associations, reflecting the universal appeal of the tournament as it prepares to be the largest edition in history.

Beyond the host nations — the United States, Mexico and Canada — the highest numbers of requests came from countries with deep football traditions, including Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Colombia. FIFA officials highlighted this widespread engagement as a powerful statement about the World Cup’s global significance and the passion it inspires among fans everywhere.

Most-Requested Matches Reveal Fan Priorities

Among the thousands of fixtures awaiting ticket hopefuls, several matches stood out as particularly sought-after. The most requested match during the application window was a group-stage encounter between Colombia and Portugal in Miami on June 27, drawing extraordinary interest from fans around the world. Other highly requested fixtures included the tournament’s opening match in Mexico City, a key group game in Guadalajara, and the World Cup final scheduled for July 19 in New Jersey — each match promising unforgettable moments in front of packed stadiums.

This intense focus on high-profile games reflects both the competitive balance of the expanded 48-team format and the geographic spread of host cities that have captured fans’ imaginations.

Ticket Allocation Process and Next Steps for Applicants

With demand far outstripping available supply, FIFA has outlined how it will allocate tickets fairly. The governing body will begin notifying applicants by email from February 5 onward, and where demand exceeds the number of seats, tickets will be distributed through a random selection draw. Applicants may be successful for all or some of the matches they requested, depending on availability.

Fans who are unsuccessful in this phase will still have additional chances to purchase tickets closer to the tournament during what FIFA calls the last-minute sales phase, where remaining inventory will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis. There is also an official resale and exchange marketplace designed to protect supporters from unauthorised sellers.

Global Demand and the Broader Picture

The flood of ticket requests highlights the massive anticipation surrounding the 2026 World Cup, set to take place across 16 cities in North America from June 11 to July 19. With an expanded 48-team field, the event is expected to attract record-breaking attendance and viewership, further solidifying football’s position as the world’s most popular sport.
Fans and observers will be watching closely as FIFA rolls out additional ticketing phases and finalises arrangements for what promises to be one of the most attended and widely watched World Cups ever staged.