With less than a year to go before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to kick off in Mexico City on June 11, information is emerging about how fans can secure tickets for matches. This World Cup will see an expansion from 32 to 48 teams, featuring a new knockout stage of 32 teams that follows the group phase, paving the way for 16 rounds.
While the full lineup of teams is still being determined, several teams are already securing their spots during the international qualifying windows leading up to the World Cup draw. As of September 10, fans have the opportunity to enter a lottery system for high-demand tickets.
Understanding the Ticketing System
Fans can express their interest by visiting the FIFA website and creating a FIFA ID, which is required to obtain tickets. The initial ticket lottery started on September 10, offering selected fans the chance to buy tickets. Due to the anticipated high demand, ticket sales will occur in phases from September 10 until Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Hospitality packages are also available, consisting of three offerings:
- Single Match Package: Starting at $1,350 per person, this option allows fans to attend one group match (excluding the host nation) and one round of 32 match of their choice, including VIP hospitality services.
- Venue Series: Starting at $8,275, this package lets fans attend all games at any venue they select, complete with hospitality for match days, covering 4-9 matches.
- Follow My Team: Priced from $6,750, this package enables fans to support their team during one group stage match and one round of 32 match, with access to hospitality included. Note: This option is currently not available in the host nation.
Key Dates
- September 2025: Completion of Conmebol’s qualifying rounds.
- November 2025: Conclusion of CAF, AFC, UEFA, and CONCACAF qualification.
- December 2025: World Cup draw scheduled.
- March 2026: World Cup and UEFA qualifying playoffs.
- March 3, 2026: 100 days to go.
- April 22, 2026: 50 days remaining.
- May 11, 2026: One month left.
Host Cities and Stadiums
Eastern Region
- Toronto, Canada – BMO Field
- Boston, MA – Gillette Stadium
- Philadelphia, PA – Lincoln Financial Field
- Miami, FL – Hard Rock Stadium
- New York/New Jersey – MetLife Stadium
Central Region
- Dallas, TX – AT&T Stadium
- Atlanta, GA – Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Kansas City, MO – Arrowhead Stadium
- Houston, TX – NRG Stadium
- Monterrey, Mexico – BBVA Stadium
- Mexico City, Mexico – Aztec Stadium
Western Region
- Vancouver, Canada – BC Place
- Seattle, WA – Lumen Field
- Los Angeles, CA – SoFi Stadium
- San Francisco, CA – Levi’s Stadium
- Guadalajara, Mexico – Akron Stadium
Host Country Matches
The opponents for these matches will be revealed during the World Cup draw.
USMNT: Group D Matches
- June 12: Los Angeles
- June 19: Seattle
- June 25: Los Angeles
Mexico: Group A Matches
- June 11: Mexico City
- June 18: Mexico City
- June 24: Guadalajara
Canada: Group B Matches
- June 12: Toronto
- June 18: Vancouver
- June 24: Vancouver
Knockout Stage Schedule
- June 28 – July 3: Round of 32
- July 4-7: Round of 16
- July 9-11: Quarterfinals
- July 14-15: Semifinals
- July 18: Third-place match
- July 19: Final match
Fan Take: The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a significant evolution in international soccer, with its expanded format and the opportunity for more fans to witness the action live. This will not only enhance the competitive spirit but also solidify soccer’s growing popularity in North America.
