FIFA has received over 500 million ticket applications for the 2026 World Cup, marking record-breaking global demand despite widespread controversy regarding high ticket prices.
FIFA announced Wednesday that it has received a staggering 500 million ticket requests for the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Applications poured in from all 211 member nations before the lottery window closed Tuesday. While host nations saw the highest interest, significant demand also originated from Germany, England, Brazil, and Argentina. Fans will be notified of their application status starting February 5.
The most sought-after matches include the Colombia vs. Portugal group stage clash in Miami and the tournament final scheduled for July 19 in New Jersey.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the overwhelming engagement, stating: “Half a billion ticket requests in just over a month is more than demand – it’s a global statement.”
He added, “Knowing how much this tournament means to people around the world, our only regret is that we cannot welcome every fan inside the stadiums.”
Despite the record numbers, the governing body faces intense scrutiny over “astronomical” ticket costs.
Football Supporters Europe (FSE) noted that prices have increased nearly fivefold compared to the 2022 Qatar tournament. In response to being labeled “extortionate,” FIFA recently introduced a lower-tier ticket category priced at $60.
Nevertheless, the 48-team expansion appears to have fueled unprecedented global interest in the upcoming summer showpiece.