FIFA Unveils Ticket Pricing for 2026 World Cup with Dynamic Adjustments

NEW YORK, NY — FIFA announced Wednesday that ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup will start at $60 for the least expensive group-stage seats, escalating to $6,730 for prime spots at the final, scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium.

This tournament will be the first to utilize dynamic pricing, meaning ticket prices may change based on demand before, during, and after the sales process begins next week.

“The message is ‘Get your tickets early,’ especially for fans of the host nations,” said Heimo Schirgi, FIFA’s World Cup 2026 chief operating officer. He emphasized the importance of early purchases due to potential price changes.

The initial ticket sale phase begins on September 10 and runs through September 19. Only Visa cardholders can enter this phase, with randomly selected applicants notified on September 29.

Fans can apply to purchase up to 40 tickets, with a maximum of four per match. A second ticket sales phase will follow in late October, and a random selection will occur after the final World Cup draw on December 5.

FIFA also plans to introduce a resale platform to ensure a secure environment for fans to sell excess tickets, although resale laws in Mexico will differ.

Ticket prices will be categorized into four tiers, primarily based on stadium levels rather than proximity to the pitch. The lower bowl of MetLife Stadium is expected to be classified as Category 1, with other tiers following.

FIFA expects significant revenue from ticket sales, potentially exceeding $3 billion, while hoping to break attendance records previously set in 1994.

Despite criticism regarding dynamic pricing, FIFA officials believe it is necessary to adapt to market demands in the host nations. They acknowledged the mixed results of this pricing strategy in previous tournaments.

The 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 across 11 U.S. cities, three in Mexico, and two in Canada, expanding the number of participating teams from 32 to 48 and total matches from 64 to 104.

FIFA encourages fans to register their interest in tickets via their website and create a FIFA ID to stay informed about ticketing updates.