More than 150 million tickets requested for World Cup 2026, setting new record

The Random Selection Draw ticketing phase began on 11 December and, after nearly three weeks, has already attracted 150 million requests. This figure represents demand more than 30 times higher than the available supply, based on verified individual credit card numbers submitted with each ticket application.

Fans can still apply for tickets, as the Random Selection Draw phase will remain open for another two weeks. It is expected to close on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, at 11:00 ET (17:00 CET). Once the window closes, a random draw will be conducted, “giving all fans equal chances of success”. Applicants who are unsuccessful will remain eligible for subsequent sales phases when additional tickets become available.

Infantino wrote on Instagram: “The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the greatest and most inclusive show on the planet, with more than 150 million tickets requested in only the first 15 days, making this edition 30 times oversubscribed – a true showcase of incredible demand from fans from over 200 countries.

“This overwhelming response from passionate fans is a true representation of how our game is loved globally. We are going to make history in North America when we bring the world together like never before in a celebration of unity and the best of football.”

The surge in demand comes despite ongoing controversy surrounding ticket prices, with many fans in Europe criticizing FIFA for high costs. In response, FIFA introduced a new $60 ticket option, though this did little to ease concerns. England’s Football Supporters’ Association said the pricing strategy risked “having all but killed off the vibrancy, atmosphere and spectacle of the World Cup for travelling supporters”.

The World Cup will take place from Thursday, 11 June 2026, to Sunday, 19 July 2026, across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico and the United States. The tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, making it the largest World Cup in history.