When Do World Cup 2026 Tickets Go on Sale – and How Much Will They Cost

The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is well underway. Hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the tournament promises to be the biggest World Cup to date featuring more teams, more matches and more cities than ever before. For fans eager to attend, the most pressing questions revolve around tickets, dates and how to get ahead in a high-demand environment. Here’s your complete guide  with everything you need to know about World Cup 2026 tickets, official sales and packages.

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Key Dates for the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with 48 national teams competing in 16 cities across North America. Important dates to keep in mind:

• June 11, 2026 – Opening match
• July 19, 2026 – Final
• September 2025 (expected) – Ticket sales phases begin

The exact schedule of matches, including host cities and kickoff times, will be released by FIFA closer to the tournament.

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How Ticket Sales Will Work

FIFA manages the ticketing process directly. It’s expected to mirror past World Cups:

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Phase 1: Application Window

Fans apply for tickets during a set window (not first-come, first-served). If demand exceeds supply, tickets are allocated via a ballot.

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Phase 2: First-Come, First-Served

Remaining tickets are sold in real-time. Availability can change quickly.

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Last-Minute Sales

Closer to the tournament, a final phase of ticket sales will open for any returned or unsold seats. You’ll need a FIFA account to apply and passport details will be required.

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Ticket Prices – What to Expect

Official prices haven’t been announced but based on the 2022 World Cup, here’s a rough estimate:

• Group Stage Matches: £40 – £175
• Round of 16 / Quarter-Finals: £100 – £300
• Semi-Finals: £250 – £600
• Final: £400 – £1000+

Hospitality packages will be priced higher but include extras like VIP seating, lounge access and catering.

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Match Locations – Where Will Games Be Played?

Matches will take place across 16 host cities:

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United States:

• Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle

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Canada:

• Toronto, Vancouver

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Mexico:

• Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey

The final is likely to be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, though this is yet to be confirmed.

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Can You Buy Tickets Through Resellers or Travel Providers?

Only FIFA and official partners can sell World Cup tickets. Be cautious of third-party websites promising early access or guaranteed seats – many are unauthorised.

That said, authorised travel providers will offer World Cup 2026 packages. These often include:

• Match tickets
• Hotel accommodation
• Transfers and ground transport
• Guided event support

Packages give fans peace of mind with logistics taken care of.

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Why Consider a Hospitality Package?

Hospitality packages are ideal for:

• Fans travelling in groups
• Corporate entertainment
• Families wanting a more secure experience
• Anyone looking for VIP treatment

Features usually include:

• Premium match tickets
• Exclusive entry lanes
• On-site hospitality lounges with food and drink
• Entertainment and guest appearances

Expect packages to be available via FIFA Hospitality and official partners such as Core Events.

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How to Prepare Now for Ticket Access

Even before sales open, you can get ready by:

• Creating a FIFA account and signing up for updates
• Following FIFA’s official ticketing portal
• Joining waitlists with official providers like Core Events
• Planning your travel dates and budgets
• Getting passport and visa documents ready

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Core Events – Supporting Fans to Experience the World Cup

If you want guaranteed access, a stress-free booking process and expert planning support, Core Events is here to help.

We provide:

• World Cup 2026 packages including match tickets, accommodation and travel
• Group bookings for businesses, sports clubs and families
• Flexible itineraries tailored to your match schedule
• Access to official FIFA hospitality and VIP experiences

Whether you’re heading to the opening match in Mexico City or the semi-finals in Los Angeles, we help fans experience the World Cup at its best.

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Final Thoughts – Get Ready Early, Book with Confidence

With global demand expected to exceed availability, planning early is essential. Tickets for the World Cup 2026 will be in high demand from the moment they’re released, especially for key fixtures and knockout stages.

If you're serious about attending, especially with a group or through hospitality, your best option is to work with an official provider. Core Events offers tailored World Cup 2026 packages that take care of every detail – so you can focus on enjoying the football. Get in touch today to register your interest or learn more about our ticket and travel packages. Call us on 0116 309 00 00 or submit your enquiry online.

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