FIFA Releases Details for First World Cup 2026 Ticket Lottery
The moment millions of football fans across the globe have been anxiously waiting for is finally here. With just seven days remaining before the first ticket lottery window opens, FIFA has officially released crucial details about the types of tickets and seating categories that will be available for the FIFA World Cup 26™.
This announcement kicks off the official countdown for fans hoping to witness history across Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The process can feel daunting, but this guide will break down everything you need to know to navigate the first lottery phase successfully. For a timeline of all four phases, see our deep dive on the official sales phases.
The Three Ticket Types Available in This Round
In this initial phase, FIFA is offering three distinct ticket products, each designed to cater to different types of fan experiences. Understanding which one is right for you is the first step toward planning your World Cup journey.
1. Single Match Ticket
This is the most straightforward option. As the name implies, a Single Match Ticket grants one person entry to one specific match.
- Who is it for? This is the perfect choice for casual fans, tourists, or anyone who wants to experience the electric atmosphere of a World Cup match without committing to a larger package. It offers maximum flexibility, allowing you to pick and choose individual games that fit your schedule and budget.
- Keep in mind: Given the high demand, securing Single Match Tickets for high-profile games (like those involving host nations or top-tier teams) will be highly competitive.
2. Venue Specific Tickets (VSTs)
A Venue Specific Ticket is a package of tickets for multiple matches held at a single stadium. This is an excellent option for fans who want to immerse themselves in the local culture of a host city.
- What’s Included: VSTs include all group stage matches at your selected venue, with the exception of the opening matches in each host country. They also include the first playoff match hosted at that venue (either a Round of 32 or Round of 16 game).
- The Exception: The only exception is Guadalajara, which does not host any knockout round matches. A VST for Guadalajara will only include the group stage games at that venue.
- What’s Not Included: These packages do not include the opening matches, quarter-finals, semi-finals, the bronze final, or the Final itself.
- Who is it for? This is ideal for fans who live near a host city or plan to base their entire World Cup trip in one location, saving on travel time and costs. It’s a fantastic way to see a variety of teams and soak in the tournament atmosphere from a consistent home base. You can explore more about the host stadiums in our article on must-visit US stadiums for World Cup 2026.
3. Team Specific Ticket (TSTs)
This is the ultimate package for the die-hard national team supporter. A Team Specific Ticket package provides you with one ticket to each of your chosen team’s three group stage matches.
- Who is it for? If you bleed your country's colors and want to be there for every moment of their group stage journey, this is the ticket for you. It guarantees you a seat to follow your team, no matter which cities they play in.
- What’s Not Included: It is crucial to note that this package only covers the three group stage matches. It does not include any potential playoff games (Round of 32, Round of 16, etc.). You will need to enter subsequent lottery phases to purchase tickets for the knockout rounds, should your team advance.
What if my team doesn't qualify? This is a common question. Based on previous tournaments, if you purchase a TST for a team that ultimately does not qualify for the World Cup, FIFA will cancel the ticket and provide a full refund.
Can You Predict Your Team's Group Stage Opponents?
The Final Draw hasn't happened yet, but that doesn't mean you can't start dreaming about the possibilities. Who could your team face in the group stage? Where might they be playing? Our tool can help you explore every potential outcome.
Want to see who your team might play? Run a simulation with our World Cup 2026 Draw Simulator!
Understanding the Ticket Categories and Seating
Once you've chosen your ticket type, you'll need to select a category. This determines both the price of your ticket and your location within the stadium. FIFA has created a clear hierarchy to suit various budgets.
Category 1
- Location: These are the highest-priced seats, located in the most prime viewing areas of the stadium, typically along the sidelines in the lower tier.
- Price: Highest.
Category 2
- Location: Positioned just outside of the Category 1 areas, these seats offer a strong balance of a great view and a slightly lower price point. They can be found in both the lower and upper tiers of the stadium.
- Price: High.
Category 3
- Location: These seats are located outside of the Category 1 and 2 areas. They are generally in the upper tier, often in the corners or behind the goals.
- Price: Medium.
Category 4
- Location: This is the most affordable ticket category, situated in the upper tier and outside the other three category areas.
- Price: Most Affordable.
- Important Note: In past tournaments, Category 4 tickets have often been reserved exclusively for residents of the host countries to ensure local fans have an accessible path to attend matches.
Accessible Seating Area
In line with FIFA's commitment to an inclusive tournament, every stadium will feature a dedicated Accessible Seating Area. These spaces are designed to accommodate fans with disabilities and those with limited mobility, ensuring they can enjoy the matches comfortably and safely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Is this a first-come, first-served sale? No. This is a random selection draw lottery. It makes no difference if you apply on the first day or the last. As long as your application is in before the deadline, you have an equal chance.
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What are the exact prices? FIFA has not yet released a specific price list for these tickets. However, the category system indicates a clear price structure, from the most expensive (Category 1) to the most affordable (Category 4).
Crucially, it has also been confirmed that dynamic pricing will be in effect. This means the price for a specific ticket can change based on demand. High-demand matches will likely see their prices increase as the tournament approaches. This makes it even more important to participate in the early lottery phases to have the best chance at securing tickets at their initial base price. Stay tuned for official price announcements. For more general info, check out our previous ticket guide.
Final Thoughts
This announcement is the starting gun for the race to World Cup 2026. Whether you're a local looking to catch a game, a traveling fan following your team, or a neutral just hoping to soak in the atmosphere, there's a ticket option for you.
Be sure to create your FIFA ticketing account in advance, read all the details carefully, and have your payment information ready. Good luck!