Record-Breaking Interest in 2026 World Cup Tickets Stuns FIFA

The excitement surrounding ticket sales for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached unprecedented heights. According to FIFA, the ongoing random selection draw for match tickets has broken records halfway through the sales period. To date, football fans from over 200 countries have submitted more than 150 million ticket applications—an extraordinary figure that underscores the tournament’s global appeal.

The interim results of the draw, which began on 11 December, reveal that the verified credit card numbers submitted with each application indicate that ticket demand exceeds supply by more than 30 times. Remarkably, this demand is 3.4 times greater than the total number of spectators across all 964 matches in the 22 previous World Cups held since 1930—a truly staggering statistic.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino commented on Instagram, “The 2026 World Cup will be the largest and most inclusive ever staged. In just 15 days, we have received over 150 million ticket applications, making demand thirty times higher than available supply. This is a clear reflection of the astonishing enthusiasm of fans from more than 200 countries.”

He continued, “The unprecedented response from supporters demonstrates how deeply football is loved around the world. In North America, we are set to create a historic tournament that unites the globe. This unique celebration will showcase football’s greatest moments and the spirit of unity.”

The random selection draw will remain open until 13 January. All applicants during this period will have an equal opportunity to secure tickets. After this draw concludes, a further draw will be conducted to ensure equal access for fans. Those unsuccessful in the initial round will have the chance to obtain additional tickets in subsequent sales phases.

Ticket prices, particularly for the 11 June–19 July tournament, have sparked criticism. Infantino defended the pricing, citing the “insanely high demand” as justification. With matches hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the pricing structure has faced scrutiny. The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) described it as “outrageous.” Group-stage tickets cost up to three times more than the 2022 Qatar World Cup, while the cheapest tickets for the New Jersey final are £3,119.

At the World Sports Summit in Dubai, Infantino noted, “We had six to seven million tickets for sale, yet in just 15 days, we received 150 million applications—an average of one million applications per day. This demonstrates the extraordinary strength and appeal of the World Cup.” He added, “In nearly 100 years, FIFA has sold 44 million tickets. Now, in just two weeks, we have matched the equivalent of 300 years’ worth of World Cup demand. It is truly unbelievable.”

Key Details of the 2026 World Cup :

With record-breaking demand, unparalleled global interest, and the largest-ever tournament structure, the 2026 World Cup promises to be a historic celebration of football, uniting fans worldwide like never before.