2026 FIFA World Cup Tickets Phase 2: Early Ticket Draw Dates, Prices & How to Apply
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will make history as the first tournament hosted by three nations. The United States, Canada and Mexico will welcome 48 teams to compete across 16 world-class stadiums.
The Phase 2 ticket lottery opens soon and gives fans another chance to secure seats at this remarkable event.
Phase 1 ticket sales attracted 4.5 million applications from 216 countries. The overwhelming response demonstrates the strong desire among fans to attend this expanded World Cup format.
Phase 2 removes the Visa card requirement from Phase 1, opening the door to everyone with a FIFA account. You need to understand the registration timeline and pricing structure to improve your odds of getting tickets.
Quick Facts: 2026 FIFA World Cup Tickets Phase 2
- Registration Opens: October 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM ET
- Registration Closes: October 31, 2025 at 11:00 AM ET
- Purchase Windows: Mid-November through early December 2025
- Total Matches Available: All 104 games
- Price Range: $60 to $6,730
- Eligibility: Anyone 18+ with a FIFA ID account
- Selection Method: Random lottery
What is the Early Ticket Draw (Phase 2)
The Early Ticket Draw represents the second official opportunity to purchase World Cup tickets. Phase 1 required a Visa card and ran from September 10-19. The new phase welcomes all fans regardless of which credit card they own.
FIFA will conduct a random lottery after the registration window closes. Your application time during the five days does not affect your chances. Every applicant has an equal opportunity to win a purchase time slot. Selected fans will receive an email notification with a specific date and time to buy tickets.
You must act fast during your assigned window because tickets sell on a first-come, first-served basis. Popular matches can sell out in minutes even after you receive access.
Phase 2 Timeline and Key Dates
The registration period spans five days, starting October 27. You can submit your application anytime during this window. Late applications have the same odds as early ones.
FIFA will run the lottery after October 31 and begin notifying winners in mid-November. Purchase windows open from mid-November through early December. Each winner gets a specific slot to buy tickets online.
The December 5 World Cup Draw in Washington DC will reveal which teams play in each group. Phase 3 will open after the draw and let fans target specific team matchups.
Ticket Prices and Categories
FIFA uses a five-category seating system for 2026. Category 1 includes the best seats in the lower bowl. Category 4 offers the most affordable options in the upper corners.
| Match Stage | Category 1 | Category 2 | Category 3 | Category 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | $410-$620 | $310-$465 | $140-$215 | $60-$105 |
| Round of 32 | $440-$590 | $335-$450 | $160-$220 | $125-$170 |
| Quarter-Finals | Starts at $275+ | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Semi-Finals | Starts at $420+ | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Final | $6,730 | $4,210 | $2,790 | $1,825 |
Host nation matches command premium prices. The USA opener at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles starts at $1,120 for Category 3 seats. Category 1 tickets for that match reach $2,735.
FIFA uses dynamic pricing for the first time in World Cup history. Prices can rise or fall based on real-time demand. Popular matchups will see prices increase. Less popular games might drop in price close to kickoff.
Also Check: World Cup 2026 Ticket Cost Breakdown ($60 – $6,730)
How to Enter the Early Ticket Draw
You need a FIFA ID account to participate. Visit FIFA.com/tickets and create your account before October 27. The registration takes about five minutes. You must provide a valid email address and verify your identity.
Log into your FIFA account on October 27 at 11:00 AM ET or anytime before the October 31 deadline. Find the Phase 2 Early Ticket Draw registration section. Complete the application form with your match preferences.
Submit your entry and save the confirmation email. FIFA will send updates to your registered email address. Check your spam folder regularly during mid-November when notifications begin.
Winners receive an email with their purchase date and time slot. You must be ready to buy immediately during your window. Have your payment information prepared in advance. FIFA accepts Visa and Mastercard for all purchases.
You can request up to 4 tickets per match with a tournament maximum of 40 tickets total. Requesting fewer tickets might improve your odds since FIFA needs to allocate seats efficiently.
Demand and Availability
The Phase 1 lottery drew applications from 216 countries. The United States led all nations in applications followed by Mexico and Canada. Germany, England, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Spain and Italy rounded out the top 10.
About 7.1 million total seats exist across all 104 matches. Getting selected for a purchase window does not guarantee ticket availability. Your desired matches might sell out before your turn. Popular games like the final and host nation matches face the highest demand.
Stadium capacity varies by venue. AT&T Stadium in Dallas hosts 9 matches and offers the most seats. MetLife Stadium in New Jersey hosts 8 matches including the final.
Hospitality and Resale Options
Hospitality packages offer guaranteed access without entering any lottery. These premium options include tickets plus meals and lounge access. Prices start at $1,350 for single match packages. Hospitality for the final ranges from $3,500 to $73,200 per person.
FIFA launched an official resale platform on October 2. The platform charges a 15% fee to both buyers and sellers. Resale prices already exceed face value by large margins.
Verizon customers can access free tickets through the My Verizon app. American Airlines AAdvantage members can redeem miles for tickets starting at 75,000 miles for group stage matches.
Scam Warning and Safety Tips
- Only buy through FIFA.com/tickets
- Verify the URL shows “https” and padlock symbol
- Never share your FIFA ID password
- Avoid third-party sellers on social media
- Reject offers that seem too good to be true
- Save all official confirmation emails
- Report suspicious sellers to FIFA support
Tips to Improve Your Chances
- Register early on October 27 to avoid technical issues
- Apply for multiple matches at different venues
- Consider less popular stadiums like Kansas City
- Request fewer tickets (2 instead of 4)
- Set email notifications for FIFA updates
- Check spam folder during mid-November
- Have backup payment methods ready
- Consider Phase 3 for specific team matchups
- Monitor first-come first-served sales in 2026
2026 FIFA World Cup Tickets Phase 2 FAQs
Can I apply for Phase 2 even though I entered Phase 1?
Yes. Phase 1 participants can enter Phase 2 for additional opportunities.
Do I need a Visa card for Phase 2?
No. Phase 2 accepts Visa or Mastercard for payment.
What happens after I submit my registration?
FIFA runs a random lottery after October 31. Winners receive email notifications starting mid-November.
Will I know which teams are playing before I buy?
No. The December 5 World Cup Draw reveals team matchups. Phase 2 tickets are sold by venue and date only.
Are tickets guaranteed once I get selected?
No. Selection gives you a purchase window but does not guarantee availability.
How much do the cheapest tickets cost?
The minimum price is $60 for select Category 4 seats at certain group stage matches.
Can ticket prices change after I see them?
Yes. FIFA uses dynamic pricing that adjusts based on demand.
How many tickets can one person buy?
You can purchase up to 4 tickets per match with a maximum of 40 tickets for the entire tournament.
What are my options beyond Phase 2?
Phase 3 opens after December 5. First-come first-served sales begin in 2026. Hospitality packages are available now.
