World Cup Ticket Frenzy: What Fans Need to Know

NEW YORK, NY – Fans eager to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup are facing a complex and costly ticket process as prices soar ahead of the tournament.

The ticket lottery system began in September, with a second phase launching on October 27, 2025, at 11 a.m. ET. Applicants can enter the lottery at their convenience, as FIFA emphasizes there is no advantage to applying early.

In the first phase, about 1 million tickets were offered for the 104 matches, but demand was overwhelming; over 4.5 million people applied. Many standard tickets for crucial matches sold out within hours.

The upcoming lottery will likely follow a similar format, as FIFA randomly selects a small percentage of entrants to purchase tickets. Winning fans will have a limited time to complete their purchases, making the process stressful yet exciting.

The price range for tickets varies widely, with the most expensive final tickets listed at $6,370 and the cheapest group stage tickets starting at $60. These prices are reflective of a new dynamic pricing model, which adjusts ticket costs based on demand, a shift that has drawn criticism from fans.

FIFA’s dynamic pricing system will likely lead to fluctuating prices leading up to and during the tournament, prompting concerns among supporters regarding ticket accessibility.

Leading into the second lottery phase, FIFA executives acknowledge that prices can increase and decrease before the tournament begins. The organization reports that ticket prices reflect market standards in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Critics claim that FIFA’s pricing strategy prioritizes profits over access, making it harder for everyday fans to attend. “This tournament should be open to everyone, but these prices suggest otherwise,” said Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe.

In response to burgeoning outrage, FIFA maintains that proceeds from ticket sales support soccer programs globally. They hope to set a record of $13 billion in revenue for this World Cup cycle.

As fans brace for the second ticket lottery, they are keen to secure their spot for this historic event. The anticipation surrounding the 2026 World Cup’s opening match is palpable, with supporters from around the globe eager to witness this soccer spectacle.